HC Deb 06 April 1939 vol 345 cc2971-3
19. Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he, in the interests of national security, will consider the advisability of cancelling permits to reside in this country of members of the German secret police, the Gestapo, and other Nazi organisations?

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Sir Samuel Hoare)

As has regard to the district described by my hon. Friend as "the rest of the Widnes area."

Following is the statement:

been previously stated, careful attention is given to the activities in this country of these organisations, with a view to appropriate action when such action is called for, and within recent weeks steps have been taken with a view to terminating the residence in this country of three persons connected with these organisations.

Mr. Mander

May I take it that the Home Secretary will continue to watch closely the activities of these persons and take such action as may be necessary from time to time?

Sir S. Hoare

Yes, certainly.

Mr. Shinwell

Is there any reason to believe that there are still members of the Gestapo residing in this country?

Sir S. Hoare

That is a different question.

Mr. Shinwell

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that that is the question on the Paper?

Mr. Bellenger

May I ask in what capacity —

Mr. Shinwell

May I have an answer to my question?

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member asks whether there are members of this organisation still residing in this country, and the question on the Paper is whether the Home Secretary will consider the advisability of cancelling permits?

Mr. Shinwell

It is impossible, I submit, to consider the question of cancelling permits unless these people do reside here. Can we have any information on that matter?

Sir S. Hoare

I have answered the question on the Paper with, I gathered, the general assent and approval of the House.

23. Mr. Thorne

asked the Home Secretary whether he can give any information in connection with the case that was referred to him on Tuesday by the Thames Police Court stipendiary about the Gestapo agents and the Nazi factory owners; and what action he intends taking about the matter?

Sir S. Hoare

My attention has been drawn to the case and I am calling for a report.

Mr. Bellenger

Have any of these Gestapo agents diplomatic immunity in this country?

Sir S. Hoare

The answer is "no."

Mr. Gallacher

Will the right hon. hon. Gentleman be willing to close down the headquarters of the Gestapo in Belgrave Square?