HC Deb 27 February 1941 vol 369 cc609-10
9. Mr. Mander

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that refugees who were sent to Canada in the motor ship "Ettrick" and have now returned to this country, have been warned by certain lower grade officials that if they make any complaint about the conditions of internment they may be reinterned; and whether he will take steps to reasure these people?

Mr. H. Morrison

No, Sir. I know of no foundation whatever for the suggestion, and I shall be glad if my hon. Friend will send me particulars of any information on which he bases an allegation of conduct so repugnant to the traditions and spirit which animate, I hope, all grades of the public service. That there is in this country the fullest liberty to make complaints is, I believe, well known to aliens, as to other classes of the community.

Mr. Mander

I shall be glad to supply the information. Will my right hon. Friend, in the meantime, give the widest publicity among internees to the statement he has just made?

Mr. Morrison

I think it is far better that when allegations of this kind are made, particulars should accompany them. I cannot undertake any action until I get the particulars.

Mr. Graham White

Could the right hon. Gentleman say, without notice, how many of these people are still interned?

Mr. Morrison

No, Sir.