HC Deb 09 December 1926 vol 200 cc2271-2
16. Mr. TAYLOR

asked the Home Secretary how many employés are employed in Great Britain by Arcos and its subsidiary companies; how many are Russians; and the number of those of Russian nationality who were resident in Great Britain before the signing of the trade agreement in 1921?

Captain HACKING

The answer to the first part of the question is 1,215, as I am informed. Of these 400 are, as I have said before, Soviet citizens, but I am sorry that, without prolonged search, I could not give figures in answer to the last part of the question. I can, however, assure the House that applications for visas from Soviet citizens seeking to join any of these companies are, and always have been, considered very carefully before they are granted.

Mr. TAYLOR

Has the Department had occasion to make any complaint against any of these citizens for interfering in British political affairs or taking part in propaganda?

Captain HACKING

In a matter of detail like that, I must have notice.

Mr. MARCH

Do they take the same care in allowing aliens to come into the country? The Home Secretary has frequently stated that none is allowed in except after consultation with the Ministry of Labour.

Captain HACKING

We are frequently in consultation with the Ministry of Labour in matters of this kind.

Colonel GRETTON

In what business is this very large number of people employed?

Captain HACKING

I have not details with me. Perhaps I can find out if my right hon. and gallant Friend wants to know.

Sir C. RAWSON

How many of the British employés are ex-police strikers?

Captain HACKING

I cannot say without notice.

Mr. HAYES

Is there, in the opinion of the Home Office, anything discreditable in any ex-member of the police force being engaged in a bona fide undertaking?

Captain HACKING

I really must have notice of a question like that, which does not arise out of the question.

Mr. NEIL MACLEAN

Since a general accusation has been made against these people, cannot the hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether or not he has any evidence that any of these employés have been guilty of interfering with political propaganda in this country?

Captain HACKING

That does not arise out of the question asked me. I have answered the question on the Paper. If the hon. Member cares to put down another question, I will do my best to answer it.