UK Government decides not to proceed with Visa bond scheme

The British Government has decided not to go ahead with its pilot 3000 pound bond scheme for tourists from six countries, including India.

"The UK government remains committed to tackling immigration abuse and has been looking at a range of options. One of those options was a financial bond. The British Government has now decided not to proceed with the option of a financial bond," a spokesperson for the British Home Office said here on Sunday.

"The Government has been considering whether we pilot a bond scheme that would deter people from overstaying the visa. We have decided not to proceed," he added.

British High Commissioner to India, Sir James Bevan said: "The UK wants the brightest and the best to help create the jobs and growth that will enable Britain to compete in the global race. So, for example, if you are an overseas businessperson seeking to invest and trade with world class businesses, one of the thousands of legitimate students keen to study at our first-class universities or a tourist visiting our world class attractions, be in no doubt: Britain is open for business."

The UK Government had labelled India as one of the high-risk countries, and had proposed to introduce the controversial 3,000-pound visa bond scheme before arrival in the country, which would have been forfeited if the visitor failed to make the return trip.

The plan involved issuing hefty refundable financial bonds to "tightly targeted" tourists.

The six countries initially shortlisted for the pilot included India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nigeria and Ghana.

The scheme is part of a series of measures being used by the Conservative-led British government to cut illegal immigration into the country.