§ MR. P. A. M'HUGH (Leitrim, N.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what are the conditions on which an alien may become a naturalised citizen of the United Kingdom.
§ *SIR M. WHITE RIDLEYThe ordinary method of naturalisation in this country is by a certificate which the Secretary of State has power to grant upon satisfactory proof of compliance with the following conditions:—(1) Residence in the United Kingdom or service under the Crown for five years out of the last eight; and (2) intention to reside in the United Kingdom or to serve under the Crown. A fee of £5 has to be paid, and, before the certificate takes effect, an oath of allegiance must be taken.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLIs it not absolutely within the discretion of the Home Secretary to refuse naturalisation?
§ *SIR M. WHITE RIDLEYYes.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLAnd there is no appeal.