HC Deb 04 May 1908 vol 187 cc1657-9
MR. CLAUDE HAY (Shoreditch, Hoxton)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what administrative measures he proposes to take to carry out the undertaking in reference to the Aliens Act, given on behalf of His Majesty's Government at Manchester by the President of the Board of Trade, to improve and alter the composition of immigration boards, the abolition of fees, as to interpretation and presentation of evidence; whether he proposes to provide at the public expense legal assistance to would-be immigrants, and whether he proposes to increase the number of interpreters; and, if so, how many interpreters will be appointed, and if he will state the salary to be given to each interpreter.

MR. GLADSTONE

As to the composition of the immigration boards, I am awaiting suggestions from those who are dissatisfied with the present membership, and I am also awaiting information as to the reasons for the suggestion that the attendance fee payable to members of the boards should be abolished. I have no reason to think that the number of interpreters requires increasing, but so far as officers under my control are concerned I am ready to take all possible steps to remedy any defect in the present arrangements for interpretation and presentation of evidence which may be proved to exist. The Aliens Act makes no provision for legal assistance to would-be immigrants at the public expense.

EARL WINTERTON (Sussex, Horsham)

May I take it that the Answer to the Question whether the Home Secretary proposes to carry out the undertaking given by the President of the Board of Trade is in the negative?

MR. GLADSTONE

I have answered the Question, and the noble Lord must draw his own conclusions from my Answer.

MR. FELL

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he proposes to issue any new regulations or instructions under The Aliens Act, 1905; and, if so, whether an opportunity will be given for the discussion of their provisions before they come into force.

MR. GLADSTONE

I have nothing to add to the Answer given on my behalf on the 30th April.

MR. FELL

The right hon. Gentleman has not answered the last part of the Question.

MR. GLADSTONE

Any question relating to the administration of the Aliens Act can be raised on the Home Office Vote.

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