← Back to Westminster Hall Debates
Academic Technology Approval Scheme
13 January 2026
Lead MP
Wendy Chamberlain
North East Fife
LD
Responding Minister
Seema Malhotra
Tags
Foreign Affairs
Word Count: 4149
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Wendy Chamberlain raised concerns about academic technology approval scheme in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The MP asks the Minister to consider extending the standard processing period from 30 working days to 40 or even 50 days and formalising this into a service-level agreement. She also inquires about the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's capacity for handling ATAS applications.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) delays have caused significant issues for international students and researchers. Delays of up to six months are common, leading to missed start dates for research programmes and causing stress for universities and funding providers.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
The hon. Member raises concerns about delays in ATAS processing times impacting research positions at universities such as Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University.
Seema Malhotra
Lab
forthcoming constituency
Discussed previous experience in the Home Office regarding inter-departmental cooperation and supported improvements to ATAS processes. Acknowledged that sometimes processes mean contacting constituents before MPs, ensuring updates are provided despite delays.
Westminster North
Expressed frustration with the FCDO's handling of ATAS and requested better updates on ongoing work. Expressed gratitude for the expedited case but noted a lack of knowledge on how to achieve it.
Government Response
Seema Malhotra
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs
Government Response
Acknowledges the importance of feedback on improving services and attracting global talent to support UK’s economy. Emphasises the need for a balanced approach in security matters while promoting international research collaboration. Will seek responses to specific concerns raised about ATAS delays. Acknowledged the importance of balancing national security with attracting global research talent, noted increasing demand for ATAS applications, promised to engage universities in improving responsiveness and transparency, and emphasised government investment in R&D.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.