HC Deb 19 July 1923 vol 166 cc2480-1
37. Mr. JOHN JONES

asked the Home Secretary if he is aware that Mr. Fred. W. Kehrhahn, now residing at 9, Willmanns Park, Blankenese, near Hamburg, has on many occasions applied for permission during the last four years to visit England in order to see his aged parents, and that permission has been refused; that Kehrhahn spent the whole of his life in this country since he was three years old up to 1919; that the whole of his relatives are now in England, including his father, aged 76 years, and his mother, who is British born and an invalid, aged 71 years; and if he will, in the absence of any political or other known reason for refusing this young man's application to see his parents, now grant his request?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I am very familiar with this case as a number of representations have been made to me about it, and I have considered all the facts carefully on each occasion. The man is a German who was interned during the War, and subsequently repatriated. The history of the case leaves no doubt in my mind that he desires to return to this country for permanent residence, and I have felt it my duty to refuse repeated applications for permission to come here ostensibly for temporary purposes.

Mr. JONES

Is the right hon. Gentleman confusing this man with another man with a similar name? I happen to know both of them and I want to press this matter.

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

If I am confusing this man with another, I shall be glad to have it cleared up, but it is not easy to avoid confusing two men with the same name and initials.

Mr. JONES

The brother of this man is probably the one in regard to whom the right hon. Gentleman has his suspicions, but this man was a pro-ally during the War in spite of the fact that he was repatriated.

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

That would not necessarily make any difference, but if there has been any mistake about this case I should be glad if the hon. Member will come and see me at the Home Office.

Mr. T. SHAW

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this man's mother who is British born, is seriously ill and desires to see her son and he has applied for a passport to come to see his mother? Will the right hon. Gentleman consider these circumstances?

Major PAGET

Would it not be a good thing to send both his parents to see him in Germany?