HC Deb 28 February 1933 vol 275 cc185-6
16. Mr. MANGER (for Mr. GRAHAM WHITE)

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs the number of British citizens who were deported from Canada through becoming a charge on public funds during 1931 and 1932?

Lieut.-Colonel J. COLVILLE (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)

In the years ending March, 1931, and March, 1932, the last two years for which figures are available, the numbers of British deportees from Canada were 3,099 and 4,248 respectively. It is not possible to state how many of these British deportees were deported through becoming a charge on public funds, but of the total number of deportees of all nationalities in the same periods, 51 per cent. and 64 per cent. respectively, were deported for that reason.

Mr. MAXTON

Can the Minister say how many of them were taken out originally under the Empire Settlement Act?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

I am not able to answer that question without notice.

Viscountess ASTOR

Can the hon. and gallant Gentleman say how many have been deported as being dependent on public charity?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

I cannot answer that question without notice.