HC Deb 07 July 1948 vol 453 cc369-70
43. Commander Noble

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many evacuees from Gibraltar still remain in camps in Northern Ireland; and when it is expected that they will all be repatriated.

Mr. Rees-Williams

There are 78 Gibraltar evacuees in Northern Ireland. They are to be transferred to the Fulham Road Institution pending their repatriation to Gibraltar. This transfer will be completed before the end of July, and the remaining camp will then be closed. In reply to the second part of the Question, more than 600 evacuees have been repatriated this year, and further repatriations will take place as and when the Gibraltar Government can provide accommodation.

44. Commander Noble

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many evacuees from Gibraltar are accommodated in the Fulham Road Institution; how many are employed; how many contribute to their board and lodging; and when it is expected to release these premises.

Mr. Rees-Williams

There are 605 Gibraltar evacuees living at the Fulham Road Institution. Two hundred and five are in employment and the remainder are mostly dependents and persons incapable of work. Ninety-five evacuees are at present contributing towards their board and lodging, and all evacuees who are in employment will be required to pay charges for board and lodging. It is not yet possible to indicate when the premises may be released. This will very largely depend on the progress of repatriation.

Commander Noble

Is the Minister aware that these people are living in very squalid conditions; and, as the Minister himself says, many of them have nothing to do, which is not desirable either in their own interests or in the interests of the neighbourhood, will he do everything possible to get them back quickly to Gibraltar?

Mr. Rees-Williams

Yes, Sir.