HC Deb 01 October 1931 vol 257 c502
2. Captain BULLOCK

asked the Minister of Labour if be proposes to take steps to ascertain the number of aliens who are now receiving unemployment benefit?

Sir H. BETTERTON

I doubt whether the detailed inquiries which would be necessary for this purpose would justify the expense incurred.

Sir GEORGE HAMILTON

Is it not most important to know whether we are keeping aliens in this country in our present financial condition, who might be exported to other countries which are still on the gold standard?

Sir H. BETTERTON

I would remind my hon. Friend that permits for the admission of aliens are very closely scrutinised. To make a detailed inquiry, as I am asked to do in the question, would involve unnecessary expense.

Sir G. HAMILTON

Surely, those terms do not permit aliens to draw unemployment insurance allowances'?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member must not debate the matter.