The Bishop of Chelmsford received the following written answers on 26th October 2023:
The Lord Bishop of Chelmsford asked His Majesty’s Government, further to the National Audit Office’s report Investigation into the Homes for Ukraine scheme, published on 17 October, what steps they are taking to improve and expand data on homelessness among Ukrainian refugees who have been part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, given that local authority data returns on scheme homelessness are voluntary.
Lord Murray of Blidworth (Con, Home Office): It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.
The Lord Bishop of Chelmsford asked His Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of any potential benefits of extending Homes for Ukraine visas beyond three years.
Lord Murray of Blidworth: In line with the situation in Ukraine, working closely with the Ukrainian Government, as well as our international counterparts, we keep the need for a possible extension of UK sanctuary, beyond March 2025, under consistent review.
The UK Government stands with Ukraine and firmly believes that Ukraine will be safe again. When it’s safe to do so, Ukraine will need the repatriation of its citizens to help recover and rebuild their economy and infrastructure. Our approach therefore has been to provide 36 months sanctuary under our Ukraine visas which are temporary and do not lead to settlement.
We are, however, also mindful that permission will start to expire, for the first arrivals under our Ukrainian schemes, from March 2025, and their need for certainty beyond that point to help them to plan ahead, for example if remaining in the UK, entering into rental agreements and living here independently.
The Church of England in Parliament 
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