HC Deb 21 February 1939 vol 344 c208
75. Mr. S. Russell

asked the Home Secretary what numbers of adult and child refugees from Central Europe are envisaged by the Government as being within the absorptive capacity of this country?

Mr. Lloyd

As has been previously stated, the number of refugees who can be absorbed into the community in a country which is so highly industrialised and settled as the United Kingdom is limited; but it would be impracticable and undesirable to fix and announce some maximum figure. The better policy is to consider cases individually, having regard in each case to the openings and means of maintenance available for the individuals under review.

Lieut-Commander Agnew

Can my hon. Friend say whether those persons are allowed to take up employment in this country?

Mr. Lloyd

That depends upon the circumstances of the individual cases.