It was also recognised that this aim was ambitious. Limitations were apparent in the data sets that would have to be examined in an attempt to map the stateless population in the UK. Therefore it was necessary to examine the different definitions and categorisations of “stateless person” employed in this data, as well as relevant guidance and recording techniques. As it proved difficult to draw firm conclusions in respect of overall numbers of stateless persons on the UK territory, the analysis of the data sets also attempted to identify any patterns and trends that existed. The main part of the chapter will set out, in detail, an analysis of a combination of published immigration statistics and the UK Border Agency’s management information in relevant areas. The analysis will identify trends and patterns that emerge, informed by findings from the qualitative data, whilst recognising the limitations that exist within the sources. This chapter will also examine a number of potentially significant data sources which, upon examination, were either discounted or given little weight. It will end with conclusions and recommendations. At the outset it is important to recognise that the referrals of participants to the project indicated that it was likely that statelessness in the UK is primarily an issue linked to migration. Consequently, the data relating to the operation of immigration control was likely to be revealing. 3.2 Home Office published immigration statistics and UK Border Agency management information The Home Office publishes the Control of Immigration Statistics.51 It proved to be the primary published source of data examined for the quantitative aspect of this research. The statistics provide reports on a number of relevant areas ranging from visas and grants of entry clearance issued, to the numbers of removals that occur. These datasets were chosen because they appeared likely to provide the most fruitful information for analysis about the circumstances in which stateless and “unreturnable” persons have interacted with the UK Border Agency and its predecessors.52 That said, the data could not provide reliable totals in respect of the numbers, profiles and situation of stateless or “unreturnable” persons in the UK because the total population is likely to include a hidden element that has not engaged with the UK Border Agency or its predecessors. It was also clear from the outset that there was additional management information kept by the UK Border Agency which could provide an important additional source of data. Consequently, a number of requests were made under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 in respect of data kept between the years of 2000 and 2010. However, since the cost of answering the requests was likely to be above the statutory threshold, the UK Border Agency suggested and made a data sharing agreement to facilitate the researchers’ access to relevant data.53 51 For example, The Control of Immigration: Statistics United Kingdom 2009, available at: http://www. homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/science-research-statistics/research-statistics/immigration-asylumresearch/hosb1510/?view=Standard&pubID=864717. 52 Immigration, asylum and nationality were part of the Immigration and Nationality Directorate of the Home Office until 1 April 2007. These areas were taken over by the Border and Immigration Agency on 1 April 2007. The UK Border Agency succeeded the Border and Immigration Agency on 1 April 2008. 53 The agreement stated that: “The information provided is for Asylum Aid /UNHCR’s use only and specifically for the Mapping Statelessness in the UK Joint Research Project. The information provided should not be used for any other purpose other than the one specified above. Once information disclosed has been satisfied, the information will be securely destroyed / returned and no copies will be held by Asylum Aid /UNHCR body.” in the United Kingdom 29