ALIENS.

HC Deb 11 June 1940 vol 361 cc1125-6

42. Sir Patrick Hannon

asked the Home Secretary whether constant, supervision is being maintained on the arrival and departure of trains at London termini for the prevention of aliens and undesirable persons travelling with members of His Majesty's Forces to and from the provinces?

Mr. Peake

A watch is kept for individuals who are under suspicion, but it would not be practicable to prevent aliens, including persons of French nationality and others who are assisting this country, from travelling in the same trains as members of His Majesty's Forces. The steps taken by the police to deal with suspected persons do not, of course, lessen the need for the greatest discretion in conversation by all travellers.

Sir P. Hannon

Would my hon. Friend assure the House that every provision possible is exercised in regard to people travelling by train?

Mr. Peake

I can assure my hon. Friend that every possible step is taken in that direction, but it would obviously not be in the public interest to give details of measures taken in the interests of public security.

Mr. Thorne

What does the hon. Gentleman intend to do in cases where men are dressed in women's clothes?

43. Sir P. Hannon

asked the Home Secretary whether he is satisfied that every necessary measure has been taken to prevent the employment of aliens in all works of national importance unless he has been assured of the loyalty of such persons to the interests of this country?

Mr. Peake

Special measures for controlling the employment of aliens in work such as my hon. Friend has in mind have been in operation since November last when an order was made providing that no alien shall be employed in a number of scheduled occupations unless he obtains a permit for this purpose. Permits are granted on my right hon. Friend's behalf by the Auxiliary War Services Department which makes careful inquiries and only grants permits to aliens about whose reliability no doubt is felt.

Sir P. Hannon

Could my hon. Friend say whether from time to time any check is exercised on the permits issued?

Mr. Peake

A very careful check indeed is exercised continuously.