To Whom It May Concern:
I am presently working on a contract in Britain. To make
my life a little more enjoyable I suggested to my girlfriend that she apply
for a visa to spend an extended holiday with me here. I provided a letter
covering her details and mine accepting responsibility for her socially and
financially, proof of my work here and my legal right to be here, proof that
I had sufficient funds to support her.
She was told she would have to attend an interview (for
an extended holiday of three months?). I phoned to try and clarify what was
going on. I asked to speak to a senior member of the expatriate staff as all
the interviewers were busy and my Thai is not good. I was amazed how rude
and condescending the person was.
Having had similar experiences dealing with government
officials we accepted the situation and she attended the interview.
The British Consulate’s representative accepted all the
information I supplied, made it clear she was satisfied that my
girlfriend’s needs would be met and then went onto infer that my
girlfriend was lying and refused her application.
From what I have been told and have read a decision had
been made before the interview.
The “refusal of entry” letter was not signed so I
take it the contents were either not translated for her or the interviewing
officer found it unnecessary to complete the form. To imply somebody is a
liar without proof is not good form; in Asia it can be professional suicide.
The rest of her unfounded conclusions displayed an inability to extract data
required from information supplied.
I had included my mobile phone number so that I could be
reached at anytime to answer any questions.
Clearly stating to applicants what documents and
information is required could have avoided some of the confusion. I cannot
see the need for me to prove I had been in Thailand when I want a visa for a
Thai national to come to Great Britain.
The government and its representatives continue to prove
to the world that it does not have the ability to operate efficiently, or
with any form of etiquette when dealing with anyone other than those with
position, power or money.
I will be taking the first opportunity offered to return
overseas on a contract where my contribution will be appreciated, I can
enjoy the company of my girlfriend and be treated with a little respect.
There is three more months to run on my contract, I will
not suffer it quietly if I am forced to do it alone.
The staff involved should be called back, disciplined and
re-educated before being re-assigned. I hope no one else has to suffer the
indignity of being belittled by these people.
Lonely in Britain