§ 60. Mr. W. Robertsasked the Home Secretary whether he can make any statement on the revision of regulations governing the application for permits for the employment of aliens in this country?
§ Sir J. AndersonAs I have already stated, it is proposed to utilise the services of friendly aliens in any direction in which they could advantageously be employed without prejudicing the interests of British subjects. To give effect to this policy, I propose very shortly to make a general order which will have the effect that, where an alien's stay in this country was made subject to a condition prohibiting him from taking employment, he will be free until further notice to enter any employment approved by the Ministry of Labour.
§ Sir H. CroftWhile appreciating the desire for finding these unfortunate people work, may I ask whether my right hon. Friend will take note of the fact that in certain districts there is now abnormal unemployment, and take great care to see that Britishers are in every case given the first opportunity?
§ Sir J. AndersonIf my hon. and gallant Friend will look at my reply he will see that I expressely safeguarded that point.
§ Mr. SorensenDoes the reply cover doctors?
§ Sir J. AndersonYes, Sir, the reply is in perfectly general terms.
Miss RathboneIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are a considerable number of friendly refugees whose services have been explicitly and personally applied for by employers who cannot get British workers, and will he endeavour to see that these long outstanding requests for permits are dealt with speedily?
§ Sir J. AndersonI will bring what the hon. Lady says to the attention of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour.