Aids amnesty wait

The fate of Zimbabweans who ignored a Government amnesty should be made clear within days.

An estimated 460 who came to New Zealand fleeing the Mugabe regime were eligible for the amnesty, which allowed them to apply for residency and have health requirements waived.

HIV infection in Zimbabwe is around 20 per cent, and several people who migrated between 2000 and 2004 have tested positive for the virus.

Critics have said the Zimbabwean migrants should be tested for HIV or be sent home. Last week Immigration Minister David Cunliffe said any Zimbabwean who failed to apply by yesterday's deadline could have no guarantee of residence.