HC Deb 30 June 1949 vol 466 cc1503-4
32. Mr. A. R. W. Low

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how much it costs British subjects born in India to establish their United Kingdom citizenship.

Mr. Ede

I assume that the hon. Member refers to the cost incurred by a person born in India who applies to me for registration as a citizen of the United Kingdom and Colonies. A fee of 10s. is charged for registration, a fee of 2s 6d. is payable to the justice of the peace or commissioner by whom the signing of the application is witnessed, and the form of application costs 4d.

Mr. Low

Is not this a large and unnecessary sum to impose on people who are forced as a result of a change in legislation by Parliament to apply for United Kingdom citizenship, which it was quite unnecessary for them to do until 1948?

Mr. Ede

Yes, Sir, I am inclined to think that the charge may be high and I am personally re-examining it.

Mr. Henry Usborne

Has the right to their passport now to be re-established by people born in India who for several years have held a United Kingdom passport?

Mr. Ede

Not in every case.

Captain Marsden

Is it necessary for Members of Parliament to apply? I was born in India. Do I really have to apply to be told that I am a British citizen?

Mr. Ede

I should think not.