§ Mr. FELLasked if the number of the Poles and other aliens employed in Lanarkshire and the adjoining counties is increasing; through what ports they enter into this country; do they come in under contract to work in the mines; and are any of them rejected by the emigration authorities under the provisions of the Aliens Act?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThere is no reason to think that the number of foreigners employed in the Scottish mines is increasing. The inspector of mines for the district reports that so far as he has been able to ascertain the number during the last four or five years has remained more or less stationary. The arrivals, as observed under the Aliens Act, of foreigners who express the intention of seeking work in Scottish mines have during the same period shown a decrease. The principal port of entry is Grimsby, but some come through London, Leith, and Grangemouth. So far as my information goes, they do not come under contract. Those of them who are found to be undesirable immigrants within the meaning of the Aliens Act are refused leave to land.
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThey are subject to the ordinary regulations of the Act.
§ Mr. FELLasked if the Poles employed in the Lanarkshire coal mines have given notice of their intention of remaining in this country permanently; if any of them are becoming naturalised; or if they return to Russia with their savings?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLNo such notice as indicated in the first part of the hon. Member's question is necessary. Very few, if any, of these Poles become naturalised. I am informed that very few of them return to Russia, but that a certain number proceed to America.
§ Mr. MacVEAGHCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether these questions about aliens in Lanarkshire mines have any connection with the fact that a by-election is proceeding in the North-Eastern Division of Lanarkshire?
§ Mr. FELLasked the Home Secretary if he can state how many Poles or other foreigners from Russia or Austria are now employed in the coal mines in Lanarkshire; if such Poles can speak English; and, if not, what steps have been taken to avoid risk of danger to themselves or the other miners in the event of any accident occurring?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLExact figures are not available; but the number is estimated roughly at about 2,000. The majority speak English sufficiently well to understand the instructions given to them by the officials; those who are unable to do so are employed with others who have been in Scotland some time and have a knowledge of the language. The abstract and rules are printed in Lithuanian for the use of these foreigners. Careful inquiry has been made from time to time, but no evidence has been forthcoming to show that their employment is a source of danger.