AN URGENT meeting with immigration minister Liam Byrne was today demanded by Canterbury MP Julian Brazier following the Home Office’s decision to deport esteemed cricket coach Hartley Alleyne.
The former West Indies and Kent player, who works at St Edmund's School in Canterbury, could now be forced to leave the country within 28 days after Home Office officials turned down his second request to remain in Britain.
In a letter to Mr Byrne, Mr Brazier said: “Following our exchange on the residential status of Hartley Alleyne I was horrified to hear that he has been turned down for a work permit, despite having achieved the GNVQ which was mooted.
“He has been in this country for twenty-nine years, with a few gaps, and has children who are British citizens here.”
Mr Brazier said he was horrified at the decision, and explained it was within Mr Byrne’s power to overturn the decision.
The Home Office’s decision is based on rules that state a work permit will only be granted if an employer can demonstrate the post requires a NVQ Level 3, HND or Degree qualification.
Despite the fact that Mr Alleyne gained an NVQ qualification over the summer, it remains the case that his job at St Edmund’s School does not require this level of training.
Jeremy Gladwin Headmaster, St Edmund’s School said: “Whilst this is a correct application of the rules, it is a great shame that common sense has not prevailed in allowing Mr Alleyne leave to remain, given the service he has given to British Cricket over a 29 year period.
“Throughout his time in the UK, he has given a great deal back to the sport through coaching many youngsters who have been enthused and inspired by his unique style and character.”
Mr Alleyne has not been allowed to work at St Edmunds since his first application was turned down in April, although the school has continued to let him stay free of charge. But now they are no longer allowed to employ him, he will have to move out of his home, and could be deported any time from the beginning of October.
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POSTED: 21/09/2007 15:32:25
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