HC Deb 05 November 1947 vol 443 c1822
35. Mr. Granville Sharp

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, how many ships have been apprehended during the last two years whilst endeavouring to take illegal immigrants to Palestine; in how many instances have proceedings been taken to secure the forfeiture of such ships and with what results; and what limits the further use of this method of recovering contributions towards the costs incurred by His Majesty's Government and the Palestine Government.

Mr. Rees-Williams

In the last two years 37 ships carrying illegal immigrants have been apprehended. I understand that proceedings for forfeiture have been taken in all, or nearly all, of these cases, but I have asked the High Commissioner for a full statement and will communicate with my hon. Friend when this is received.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

Has any approach been made to the Governments under whose flags these ships sail, to prevent a misuse of their flags?

Mr. Rees-Williams

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Sharp

Will the Minister arrange for this information to be circulated in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Rees-Williams

In all probability, but I will wait first to see what it is.