The number of foreign prisoners who have come to the end of their sentences but cannot be deported has passed the 5,000 mark, despite repeated pledges by Home Office ministers to speed up removals.
In an inspection report published on Thursday, John Vine, the independent chief inspector of immigration, says the UK Border Agency (UKBA) must do more to manage the 5,375 foreign prisoners who, having completed their sentences, have remained in detention or have been released into the community pending deportation.
