HC Deb 17 November 1938 vol 341 cc1036-7
32. Brigadier-General Spears

asked the Home Secretary how many German subjects other than refugees are at present in this country with either residential or working permits; and with regard to the latter, what are the principal categories of employment in which they are engaged?

Sir S. Hoare

As the answer is somewhat long and includes a number of figures I will, with my hon. and gallant Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Mander

Would it not be practicable to send back to Germany the German Nazis in this country in order to make more room for the refugees?

Sir S. Hoare

That is obviously another question.

Following is the answer:

The number of persons over 16 years of age registered with the police in the United Kingdom in May, 1938, as Germans is 9,939 males, 11,932 females, making a total of 21,871, and as Austrians is 2,845 males, 13,161 females, making a total of 16,006. The combined total is, therefore, 37,877. A large proportion of these persons have been resident in this country for many years and it is not possible to say how many of them could be classified as being outside the refugee category, that is, persons who could return to Germany without fear of discrimination on political, racial or religious grounds.

As regards refugees who have come from Germany within the last few years the number of persons who have been granted prolongation of stay in this country and whose circumstances indicate that they are unable to return to Germany is 4,800 males, 3,805 females, making a total of 8,605. The comparable figures for Austrians is 1,200 males, 937 females, 232 children, making a total of 2,369. These figures cannot be regarded as exhaustive because among the many persons who obtain permission to enter or remain in this country for business, study or a visit to friends, there are no doubt many who, in fact, are refugees.

As regards the last part of the question, figures are not available. A large number of the women are in domestic service. There are many young people undergoing educational courses. There are persons in business on their own account. There are technicians and specialists engaged in various businesses; and there are professional people engaged in literature, scientific research, academic work and other occupations.

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