§ 13. Colonel GRETTONasked the Home Secretary the numbers of Russian subjects with permanent residence at, or in connection with, Russian trade agencies in the United Kingdom; how many of these permits are for lung periods; and if any of them are for short periods only?
§ Sir J. GILMOURAccording to my latest information, 241 Soviet citizens are employed by the Soviet business organisations in this country. All Soviet citizens proceeding to the United Kingdom to take employment in these organisations must be in possession of permits issued to the prospective employers by the Ministry of Labour. On admission they are allowed to reside for a definte period which may be extended by the Secretary of State from time to time, if the Secretary of State is satisfied that extension should be granted. Without investigat- 486 ing each individual case, I could not give figures as to the length of residence, but in no case is an extension granted for more than 12 months at a time.
§ Colonel GRETTONMay I ask whether there is any limitation on the number of permits?
§ Sir J, GILMOUREach case is judged on its merits.
§ Sir NICHOLAS GRATTAN-DOYLEWill the right hon. Gentleman say how many of those who hold permits are in the position of enjoying diplomatic immunity?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe figure of 241, which I have given, does not include the permits supplied to the Soviet Trade Delegation, in which 24 Soviet citizens are employed.
§ Mr. LEVYDoes the right hon. Gentleman consider that the investigation into the character of these aliens is adequate, having regard to the Communist propaganda that is now taking place?
§ Sir J. GILMOURYes, I think it is.