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A further 100,000 Ukrainians will be able to seek sanctuary in the UK, the home secretary has announced, but Priti Patel has ruled out a visa waiver for those fleeing the conflict with Russia following Vladimir Putin’s invasion.
Making the announcement in the Commons, Priti Patel said family members of those who are British nationals or have been given settled status – who do not meet the usual eligibility criteria but pass security checks – will be able to come to the UK for 12 months.
Ukraine-Russia news live: Peace talks begin on Belarus border
Key developments in the Ukraine crisis:
• Russia’s attack ‘not on schedule’ and ‘in some significant areas of disarray’ – defence secretary
• ‘Dozens killed in mass shelling’ as both sides hold peace talks
• Russia hikes key interest rate to 20% after rouble sinks to record low
• Roman Abramovich trying to find ‘peaceful resolution’ to Ukraine invasion, spokesman says
However, the home secretary said she would not be introducing a visa waiver because of fears that Russian troops and extremists could try and come to the UK.
Updating MPs on the government’s latest efforts, Ms Patel said the UK’s new “bespoke humanitarian route” for the people of Ukraine would “keep pace with the developing situation on the ground”.
The home secretary told MPs this has “already supported hundreds of British nationals and their families resident in Ukraine to leave”.
“The UK visas and immigration staff continue to work around the clock to assist them,” she said.
Ms Patel added: “We are in direct contact with individuals and we’ve also lowered various requirements and salary thresholds so that people can be supported.
“Where family members of British nationals do not meet the usual eligibility criteria, but pass security checks, UK visas and immigration will give them the permission to enter the UK outside the rules for 12 months and is prioritising all applications.
“Giving British nationals and any person settled…
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Source : skynews
