HC Deb 04 March 1941 vol 369 cc755-6
24. Mr. Wedgwood

asked the Undersecretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he will approach the Australian Government as to the settlement in Australia of those landed from the "Dunera" who would have been eligible for release if they had remained in this country?

The Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs (Mr. Shakespeare)

His Majesty's Government in the Commonwealth of Australia have already indicated that they are not prepared to allow persons sent to Australia as internees to be released for settlement there. In the circumstances I do not consider that an approach on the lines suggested by my right hon. Friend would serve any useful purpose.

Mr. Wedgwood

Is that the best the hon. Gentleman can do in view of what happened on the "Dunera"? Would he approach Mr. Menzies who is now in this country on the question to see whether some solution can be found?

Mr. Shakespeare

I understand that an officer has been sent to Australia by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary to interview each case and see whether it is a fit subject for release and return to this country.

Mr. Wedgwood

But will the hon. Gentleman see the Australian Prime Minister who is now in this country?

Mr. Shakespeare

The Australian Government offered to take internees and not settlers.

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