Commissioner's Statement on Sky News Article about Sham Marriages
27/05/2010
The Commissioner takes any possible breach of her Code of Standards and Rules very seriously.
If we have information that an immigration adviser is acting possibly in breach of our regulatory scheme, she will investigate and if proved will take appropriate action.
Once we have the information obtained by Sky News we will look into the alleged breach.
Notes to the Editor:
1. The Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) is an independent public body set up under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.
2. Since 30 April 2001 it has been a criminal offence for an adviser to provide immigration advice or services unless their organisation:
has registered with the OISC;
has been exempted from registration by the OISC or ministerial order; or
is otherwise qualified under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
3. The OISC is responsible for ensuring that all immigration advisers fulfil the requirements of good practice. The OISC is committed to the elimination of unscrupulous advisers and the fair and thorough investigation of complaints. Whilst it does not regulate solicitors it does take complaints against solicitors.
4. For more information contact Clyde James, Head of Policy, Publications, and Stakeholders (PPS) at the OISC, on 020 7211 1635.
