HC Deb 08 November 1934 vol 293 cc1274-5
60. Mr. NORTH

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to the increas- ing number of Cypriots coming into this country to obtain work and unemployment benefit; and whether any restrictions are placed upon their emigration from Cyprus, in view of the lack of work in this country?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

This question is under consideration. The only existing restriction is that Cypriot emigrants are, unless persons of substance, required by the Colonial Government before passports are issued to provide a surety to indemnify the Government against the expense of their repatriation. Further restriction as regards the right of entry into the United Kingdom presents some difficulty, since Cypriots are entitled to all the privileges attaching to their position as British subjects. In consultation with the Secretary of State for Home Affairs, I am, however, considering whether, in their own interest any further restrictive measures are desirable and practicable.