HC Deb 25 April 1940 vol 360 cc365-6
55. Mr. Levy

asked the Home Secretary what are the conditions governing the grant of exit permits to visit Eire; and what check is applied to establish the bona fides of travellers to Eire and to stop espionage contacts through the German Legation in Dublin?

Sir J. Anderson

An applicant for an exit permit to visit Eire is required to satisfy the Passport and Permit Office, before a permit is granted, that the grant of facilities would not be detrimental to the national interests. I am afraid I could not undertake to go into detail in regard to the nature of the precautions that are in fact taken.

Mr. Levy

While appreciating the natural reserve on the part of my right hon. Friend, is he aware that there is a good deal of apprehension in this country in regard to the activity of the German Legation in Dublin on various matters?

Sir J. Anderson

I do not think a question on that subject should be addressed to me.

Dr. Little

Is the Home Secretary aware that the President of the Dail took upon himself the duty, as he thought, of issuing a passport to one of my constituents?

Mr. McGovern

Can the Home Secretary tell me whether, seeing that Eire is part of the British Empire, there should be a German Legation there at all?

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