HC Deb 24 October 1949 vol 468 c1010
61. Mr. Skeffington-Lodge

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether facilities are available to Germans in the British zone to emigrate permanently to other countries; and whether Britain is included in the scheme.

Mr. Mayhew

Since July this year German nationals in the British zone (who can produce evidence that they will be accepted by another country) have been free to apply for exit facilities provided that their emigration is neither prejudicial to the interests of the Occupying Powers nor contrary to the economic interests of Germany. Germans applying to emigrate to this country would be dealt with under the general policy governing the admission of aliens for permanent residence in this country.

Mr. Skeffington-Lodge

Does that mean that Germans can apply now to emigrate to British Colonies with some chance of getting there?

Mr. Mayhew

So far as exit permits are concerned, unless they fall into the two categories which I have mentioned, the answer is "Yes." As for entry permits, that is a matter for the Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Mrs. Leah Manning

Does my hon. Friend's answer cover the emigration of Polish miners from Germany back to Poland?

Mr. Mayhew

The question of displaced persons is another matter.