§ 14. Mr. H. WILLIAMSasked the Home Secretary whether he has issued a permit for a further visit to this country of Mr. Soermus; if so, for what period the permit was issued, and whether it has been renewed?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI recently authorised the grant of a visa to enable Mr. Soermus to travel to this country for a visit of 14 days for the purpose of seeing his children. No extension of this period will be allowed.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSWhat is the legal nationality of the gentleman?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI think he is a Russian, but I cannot carry the nationality in my head. I will let my hon. Friend know if he wants to know.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSAre the children of the same legal nationality as their father?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI believe they are legal children, and therefore they must be of the same. nationality.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIn those circum stances, could the right hon. Gentleman say why they are still here?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI am not quite certain. I would prefer to have notice of that question.
§ Mr. DUNCANCan the right hon. Gentleman say what crime this gentle man has committed?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI am not suggesting that he has committed any crime.
§ Mr. DUNCANThe questioner has.