16. Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALLasked the Home Secretary whether he is satisfied that the arrangements in force enable the authorities to prevent undesirable aliens coming into this country with excursion tickets and remaining; and, if not, whether it is proposed to strengthen the existing Regulations in this respect?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSYes, Sir. I am satisfied with the vigilance exercised to see that the facilities granted to excursionists are not abused. I am further of opinion that the system works to the public advantage of this country.
Sir F. HALLHas the right hon. Gentleman's attention been drawn to the fact that, of 11 excursionists who came from the Continent recently, eight have been sentenced to terms of imprisonment at Bow Street and recommended for deportation; and will his Department see to it that these gentry, when they come out of their present occupation, are deported?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThat is a matter for the Secretary of State himself. All these cases are reported to me and considered by me, and I am sure my hon. and gallant Friend realises that I do my best to act properly in the matter.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSWill the right hon. Gentleman refuse to be intimidated—[HON. MEMBERS: "Order!"].
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat does not arise out of the question.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSOn a point of Order. The question on the Paper refers to aliens who come to this country as excursionists, and to the steps taken by the Home Secretary, either in allowing them to remain here or in having them deported. I asked the Home Secretary not to be intimidated into discriminating between poor and rich excursionists. Surely that question is in order.