HC Deb 13 February 1922 vol 150 c612
88. Mr. STEWART

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can give any information as to the present position of the descendants of British parents born in Japan; and whether the Dominions have agreed to their being accorded the status of British citizens?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The descendants of British parents who were themselves born in Japan are of British nationality, with the exception that such persons as were born after the entry into operation of the British Nationality and Status of Aliens Act on 1st January, 1915, to parents themselves born after 17th July, 1899, the date on which His Majesty's Government renounced their extra-territorial jurisdiction in Japan would at present have no nationality. The Governments of Australia and of the Union of South Africa have already agreed to the Amendment of the British Nationality and Status of Aliens Act, 1914, discussed at the Prime Minister's Conference last summer, and it is hoped that the agreement of the remaining Dominions will be forthcoming shortly.

Sir W. DAVISON

Is there any hope that legislation will be introduced this Session dealing with this very important and non-contentious subject?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

That question should be addressed to the Leader of the House.