HC Deb 21 March 1922 vol 152 cc216-7
26. Mr. LYLE

asked the Home Secretary the number of aliens who have entered this country in the last year; whether, in view of the existing unemployment, he is still restricting their numbers; and whether he has any information showing the competition of their low rates of wages with British-born subjects, more especially in industrial centres?

Mr. SHORTT

The number of aliens who landed in the United Kingdom in 1921 was 294,569, and the number who embarked was 305,866. These figures do not include aliens who passed through the country as transmigrants. The vast majority of those who landed were visitors on business or on holiday, or residents returning after a sojourn abroad. I am satisfied that the provisions of the Aliens Order are being strictly enforced, and that aliens are not being allowed to land for the purpose of seeking employment. No information has reached me showing that aliens in industrial centres are competing with British-born subjects by accepting lower rates of wages.

Sir C. YATE

Was not an alien allowed to land the other day whose papers had to be confiscated as seditious?

Mr. SHORTT

There is another question on this subject.

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