TheSpecial Immigration Appeals Commission (also known by theacronymSIAC) is a superiorcourt of record in theUnited Kingdom established by theSpecial Immigration Appeals Commission Act 1997 (c. 68)[1] that deals with appeals from persons deported by theHome Secretary under various statutory powers, and usually related to matters ofnational security.[2] SIAC also hears persons deprived ofBritish citizenship under theBritish Nationality Act 1981 as amended by Section 4 of theNationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002.[3]
Anappellant is represented to the commission by aspecial advocate who is a personvetted by theSecurity Service with controversy surrounding the use ofsecret evidence which only the judges and special advocates have access to.[4]
It previously had the power to certify a person as aninternational terrorist under Part 4 of theAnti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001 until this was repealed by thePrevention of Terrorism Act 2005.[citation needed]
There shall be a commission, known as the Special Immigration Appeals Commission, for the purpose of exercising the jurisdiction conferred by this Act.
It is the venue of appeal for foreign nationals facing detention, deportation or exclusion from the UK on grounds of national security. It has the same powers as the High Court and is presided over by senior judges.
There shall be a commission, known as the Special Immigration Appeals Commission, for the purpose of exercising the jurisdiction conferred by this Act.
Once appointed, the SA has the right to see all of the secret evidence in the Home Secretary's hands. Under no circumstances can they reveal any of it to the appellant or his legal team.