HC Deb 21 November 1928 vol 222 c1729
Colonel VAUGHAN - MORGAN

(by Private Notice) asked the Home Secretary whether the inquiries which are now proceeding into certain cases of alleged corruption in the Metropolitan Police implicate any of the aliens engaged in the conduct of night clubs or similar establishments, and, if so, whether he has considered exercising his power of deportation with respect of such aliens?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Yes, Sir. I understand that the inquiries that have been steadily proceeding tend more and more to support the view that the money found in the possession of a certain police sergeant had been obtained to a substantial extent from alien proprietors or managers of night clubs; and I can assure the House that I shall give the most serious consideration to the question of deporting any alien who may have been guilty of such conduct.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is one of these clubs the Kit-Cat Club?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I think it would be well if the hon. and gallant Gentleman did not press me for the names of any of them. A very careful and searching inquiry is being made.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Kit-Cat Club was raided after he himself opened it, and was closed?

Mr. DAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether there is such a, place now as the Kit-Cat Club?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Honestly, I believe there is not. I believe it is a restaurant.

Mr. JAMES HUDSON

Could the right hon. Gentleman not avoid the whole of the incentive to corruption on the part of the police if he were to bring in legislation giving the police power to investigate the conditions of all clubs?