Dear Sir,
I congratulate the Observer for drawing attention to the unfortunate case of Mr Lloyd Bogle who was unable to return to the UK following his holiday in Jamaica as he did not have the necessary documents or visa.
I thought it would perhaps be helpful if I could provide some clarity on this sort of case.
There are many Jamaicans who live in the UK and have done so for many years without acquiring British Citizenship. Those who arrived in the UK many years ago may well be entitled to apply for British nationality. If they choose not to, however, and continue to use a Jamaican passport, they are expected to obtain permission to remain in the UK (called Indefinite Leave to Remain) from the British Home Office.
Crucially, if they intend to travel to Jamaica, they should ensure that they have the proper authorisation to return to the UK before they leave. This could take the form of a stamp in their Jamaican passport, or – if they have one – use of their British passport.
If they are unsure or have questions about the process, they should please check with the Home Office or with the Jamaican High Commission before they leave the UK.
More information about the UK Immigration process, is available at: https://www.gov.uk/visas-immigration
Information on eligibility for UK passports is available at: https://www.gov.uk/browse/abroad/passports
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Clarity was well needed – So glad this man ordeal is over . Morning MET!!!