As recently as 14 September 2010 the Government’s position was that it is not enforcing returns to Zimbabwe. In a debate in the Commons on that day the following question and answer were given:

Keith Vaz (Leicester East) (Lab): Given the critical situation in Zimbabwe, does it remain the Government’s policy that Zimbabwean citizens who have claimed asylum here will be removed to Zimbabwe?

Mr Bellingham: The UK Border Agency is looking to start work on a process aimed at normalising our returns policy to Zimbabwe as and when the political situation develops. However, we are not starting enforced returns yet by any means.

It seems unlikely that the new COIS report mentioned a couple of days ago on this blog will change this position. I imagine the Home Office will await the outcome of the test case scheduled for October. If I hear more, I’ll let you know.