HC Deb 27 September 1944 vol 403 c230
35. Captain Plugge

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many Gibraltarians remain in this country and Northern Ireland; and what are the objections to the rest of them being sent home.

Colonel Stanley

Approximately 6,500 Gibraltarians remain in Northern Ireland and 1,000 in this country. More than 6,000 have already returned. The return of the remainder is delayed by shortage of accommodation caused by bombing, demolition, dilapidation, increase of naval, military and air force establishments, the provision of an aerodrome and loss of accommodation in La Linea.

Mr. H. Lawson

May I ask if the Minister has given the Gibraltarians an opportunity of remaining in this country if they so desire?

Colonel Stanley

Some are staying for the moment; nobody has been deported.