HC Deb 22 February 1940 vol 357 cc1509-10
17. Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of Estate for the Home Department whether he is now able to state that the machinery for a further systematic review of the cases of refugees placed in Category "B" by an aliens tribunal is ready to function?

Sir J. Anderson

It has been decided to set up an Advisory Committee for each of the Civil Defence Regions to consider, inter alia, the cases of all Germans and Austrians placed in Category "B" by the tribunals and I am now completing the selection of personnel for these committees. This machinery will begin to function at an early date.

Miss Rathbone

In view of the fact that the announcement of these new committees was made considerably before Christmas, will the right hon. Gentleman speed up their functioning, as many refugees are prevented from doing work that would be valuable to the country owing to their not being de-restricted?

Sir J. Anderson

I have been doing everything possible to expedite the setting up of the committees.

Mr. Mander

Will there be any appeal from these new committees?

Sir J. Anderson

There can always be a reference to the Central Advisory Committee. That is at my discretion.

18. Mr. Mander

asked the Home Secretary the amount of employment and trade which has accrued to this country up to date from the admission of refugees who have already been allowed to start work here?

Sir J. Anderson

It is known that a number of refugees who have been allowed to start factories and businesses here have brought increased trade and employment to the country. Inquiries are being made as to the number and extent of these new undertakings and the amount of trade and employment created thereby, and at a later date I hope to publish a comprehensive statement.