**MPs Urge UK Government to Help Gaza Students with Visa Delays**
More than 70 Members of Parliament (MPs) have written a joint letter to Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the opposition, asking for his help in addressing visa delays affecting students from Gaza. The MPs are seeking an urgent solution to allow biometric checking for these students in Egypt or Jordan.
One student, Haia Mohammed, was awarded a scholarship to study at Goldsmiths University, but she and over 80 others were unable to record their data due to the lack of a visa application centre in Gaza. The letter calls on the government to “coordinate an urgent evacuation route” for these students, so they can return to Palestine after completing their studies.
**Government Response**
A spokesperson for the Home Office responded by saying that they are aware of the situation and are considering how best to support the affected students. They acknowledged that the situation in Gaza makes it difficult, but assured that they are doing everything possible to find a solution.
**Shadow Home Secretary Weighs In**
Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, took a different approach by suggesting that biometric checks should be done at British consulates located in Israel. He argued that this is an essential part of their safety arrangements and would ensure that students are properly vetted before arriving in Britain.
Philp also pointed out that other countries have conducted similar security checks during times of conflict, citing Ukraine as an example. He emphasized that the UK should not allow individuals with a bad record to enter the country, but should prioritize the needs of students who have already secured scholarships and university places.
**Background**
The situation in Gaza has been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The lack of access to visa application centers and other essential services has created significant challenges for students seeking to study abroad.