§ 13. Captain CUNNINGHAM-REIDasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department at whose instance he issued and subsequently withdrew instructions for an American student, Frank Meyer, to leave this country in connection with subversive political activities; and if he will consider renewing them?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir John Gilmour)Mr. Meyer was admitted to this country for the purpose of study and had been given permission to prolong his stay until 31st July, 1934, for the purpose of completing some research work on which he was engaged at the London School of Economics. Subsequently I was informed that his connection with the school had been terminated and an intimation was therefore sent to Mr. Meyer that he must make arrangements to leave the country. This instruction has not been withdrawn, but as I am given to understand that the question of the termination of his work at the School of Economics will be reviewed by the governors of the school in the course of two weeks, I have agreed that Mr. Meyer may remain in this country until the end of the month.
§ Captain CUNNINGHAM-REIDMay I bring certain features of this young man's record as an agitator before my right hon. Friend?
§ Mr. ISAAC FOOTMay we have an assurance from the right hon. Gentleman that this man is being dealt with under the ordinary regulations, and that there is no individual political significance relating to the action of the Home Office?
§ Sir J. GILMOURIt is under the ordinary regulations. Anybody coming from a foreign country for purposes of study has permission to remain so long as he continues that study, but when the period of study finishes he returns to his country of origin.
§ Mr. ATTLEEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this gentleman is engaged on research work at the British Museum; and is there any reason why, even if he has ceased his studies at the School of Economics, he should not be allowed to continue his research work in the British Museum?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI am aware of all the circumstances. This case is being dealt with in the normal manner
§ Mr. THORNEIs it not the case that every Member of this House is an agitator in some form or another?