9. Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALLasked the Home Secretary what action he proposes to take with regard to David Backer, a Russian Communist engaged on treasonable propaganda work, with reference to whom a number of deportation orders have been made but who is still in this country owing to the refusal of the Soviet Government to take him back?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThis man has now been sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment as an incorrigible rogue. The question of his ultimate disposal is not therefore of immediate urgency, but as I explained in reply to a question by the hon. Member for Acton (Sir H. Brittain) on 14th June, application has again been made to the Soviet Government with a view to Backer's recognition as a Soviet citizen.
Sir F. HALLHas the right hon. Gentleman noticed that the magistrate said this case showed a monstrous state of affairs, and that he regarded this man as a criminal of the worst type who was preying on the poor people of this country; and will the right hon. Gentleman undertake to see that when this man has completed his sentence he is deported to Russia? Let them have their own criminals back.
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI have explained to my hon. and gallant Friend that I want to deport this man. He is a very undesirable person here, but I cannot compel Russia to take him if they are unwilling to do so.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINWill the right hon. Gentleman consider sending a bill to Russia for the cost of keeping this incorrigible rogue for the next 12 months?