Oral Answers to Questions — Refugees.

– in the House of Commons at on 4 July 1940.

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Photo of Rear-Admiral Tufton Beamish Rear-Admiral Tufton Beamish , Lewes

asked the Home Secretary whether he will give an indication of the numbers and nationality of alien refugees who have recently reached these shores in consequence of events on the Continent; whether he is aware that refugees are being encouraged to come here by private persons; and whether he will at once put a check on the influx and divert these liabilities on this island to their own or other countries not now at war?

Photo of Sir John Anderson Sir John Anderson , Combined Scottish Universities

Approximately 22,500 aliens have arrived in this country from territory on the Continent invaded by the enemy. I have no information to support the suggestion that refugees are being encouraged by private persons to come here, but in any event the cessation of passenger traffic between the United Kingdom and territories occupied or invaded by the enemy has automatically put a stop to the flow of refugees to this country.

Photo of Rear-Admiral Tufton Beamish Rear-Admiral Tufton Beamish , Lewes

Is my right hon. Friend aware that at the present time, when we are making great efforts to send overseas our own rising generation, we are doing nothing to divert the influx of thoroughly undesirable people who ought to be fighting in their own country?

Photo of Sir John Anderson Sir John Anderson , Combined Scottish Universities

My hon. and gallant Friend is quite wrong in saying that nothing has been done. The matter is being very carefully watched.