HC Deb 30 June 1942 vol 381 cc24-6
42. Sir R. Glyn

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now in a position to state the steps taken to improve the situation of British subjects in this country evacuated from the Channel Islands; and whether the governors and their staffs can be employed to form a central bureau of information of all requirements of these people both here and, as far as can be, concerning affairs in the islands?

Mr. Peake

If my hon. Friend will let the Home Secretary know what are the specific matters on which he thinks that further action should be taken to assist Channel Islanders now in this country, my right hon. Friend will be glad to consider any communication from him. Steps have been taken by the appropriate Government Departments for the support of those without means, for finding accommodation for those who are unable to make their own arrangements and for helping persons wishing to find employment. There is also an influential Committee under the Chairmanship of Lord Justice du Parcq which promotes the welfare of these refugees and acts as a central bureau of information. This Committee is in close touch with the Home Office and Ministry of Health, and one of the members of the Committee is a responsible official of the Ministry appointed for the purpose of ensuring that contact shall be maintained between the Committee and the Government. I am sending my hon. Friend a copy of a recent report by this Committee which shows what is being done by the Committee as a clearing house for information.

Sir R. Glyn

Do I gather that there is no official body to assist the interests of these British subjects at all?

Mr. Peake

The Home Office is the Department of the Government responsible generally in regard to the Channel Islands.

Sir W. Davison

I rather gathered from previous statements that Channel Islanders are in the same position in regard to obtaining assistance as citizens of this country, and are they in a different position?

Mr. Peake

Everything possible has been done to assist these refugees, and every practicable and useful suggestion will be taken into account.

    cc25-6
  1. Laid-up Motor Vehicles (Immobilisation). 338 words