HC Deb 05 October 1944 vol 403 cc1117-8
30. Mr. Boothby

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will now withdraw those Defence Regulations which empower him to detain British subjects and citizens of Allied Nations without trial or charge.

Mr. H. Morrison

The time has not arrived when it would be safe to dispense with these Regulations or to release en bloc the persons detained under them, but as regards the review of the cases of persons detained under Defence Regulation 18B I would refer my hon. Friend to the statement which I made on Tuesday, 26th September. As regards aliens detained because deportation hi wartime is impracticable or prejudicial to the war effort, the considerations are somewhat different. It is intended to deport the aliens concerned to the countries to which they belong, when deportation again becomes prac- ticable. Pending deportation, aliens are detained only if their detention is necessary or expedient for securing the public safety, the defence of the realm or the maintenance of public order.

Mr. Boothby

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that most people will be heartily glad to see the end of these Regulations, which are so alien to the whole spirit and traditions of this country?