HC Deb 20 July 1938 vol 338 cc2175-6
6. Mr. Day

asked the Prime Minister which countries have now ratified the convention relating to the international status of refugees?

Mr. Butler

There are two Conventions and one provisional arrangement relating to refugees. As the answer is, therefore, somewhat long, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Day

Have any steps been taken to implement the Convention?

Mr. Butler

I think that the hon. Member had better refer to the answer which I have given him.

Mr. Mander

Have the reservations with regard to colonial territories been withdrawn?

Mr. Butler

I am not aware to which convention the hon. Member is referring.

Following is the answer:

The Convention relating to the international status of refugees signed at Geneva on 28th October, 1933, has been ratified or acceded to by Belgium, the United Kingdom, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, France, Italy and Norway. The provisional arrangement concerning the status of refugees from Germany, concluded at Geneva on 4th July, 1936, is in force in respect of Belgium, the United Kingdom, Denmark, France, Norway, Spain and Switzerland. The Convention regarding the status of refugees coming from Germany, signed at Geneva on 10th February, 1938, is open for signature until 9th August, and no ratifications can take place until after that date.