HC Deb 06 June 1930 vol 239 cc2537-8
3. Mr. DOUGLAS HACKING

asked the Home Secretary if he will state the number of passports visaed for Russian subjects desiring to enter this country since the resumption of diplomatic relations with Russia?

Mr. CLYNES

From the resumption of diplomatic relations with the U.S.S.R. until yesterday, 224 visas have been authorised for Soviet citizens desirous of travelling to the United Kingdom.

Mr. HACKING

Can the right hon. Gentleman say from memory how many have been refused admission during the same period?

Mr. CLYNES

I could not reply without notice.

Sir KINGSLEY WOOD

Is it a fact that the number of admissions shows about 50 per cent. increase over the previous 12 months?

Mr. CLYNES

I require notice of that question also.

Mr. ALBERY

Are any special precautions taken to make sure that all these supposed Soviet citizens are, in fact, Soviet citizens?

Mr. CLYNES

Yes, all customary precautions are taken to ascertain the facts.

Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTE

Are these people mostly visitors to this country, or are they passing through?

Mr. CLYNES

Passing through.