HC Deb 15 December 1938 vol 342 cc2172-3
64. Mr. Howard Gritten

asked the Home Secretary in view of the large numbers of unemployed, when he intends to stop the influx of aliens into this country?

Sir S. Hoare

As I have explained in my previous statements, the policy of selection and control which has been adopted is designed to meet the difficulty to which my hon. Friend refers. Provided care is taken in the application of this policy, it is possible to admit a number of refugees without aggravating the unemployment problem. For example, women can be admitted for domestic employment. Again, foreigners admitted to this country during the past few years have started new industries which have given employment to a considerable number of British people.

Mr. Gritten

In the matter of the admission of aliens to this country, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the Government intend to continue its special favours to its friends the Jews?

Sir S. Hoare

There are no special favours to any class.

Colonel Wedgwood

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this question comes not from the trade unions of this country, but from the manufacturers and employers?

Mr. Sandys

Is it not a fact that the entire country is behind the Government in this humanitarian work?