§ 62. Professor Savoryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that South Schleswig is already overcrowded with German refugees, most of whom are unable to obtain employment; and what steps he is taking to prevent any further influx of these refugees for whom it is not possible to find accommodation.
§ Mr. Ernest DaviesHis Majesty's. Government are fully aware of the difficult situation in Schleswig Holstein, where, out of a total refugee population of just over a million, some 129,000 are unemployed. Energetic action is being taken by the German Federal and Land 1557 authorities, upon the invitation of the Allied High Commission, to restrict the influx of refugees into the Federal territory.
§ Professor SavoryDoes the hon. Member realise that these refugees are still pouring in, that they hide in the woods during the day-time and cross the frontier at night and that stringent measures must be taken to prevent this terrible overcrowding and flooding of this unfortunate province?
§ Mr. DaviesThat may be so, but this is now the concern of the Federal Government. They have responsibility for dealing with this matter.
§ Professor SavoryBut did not the hon. Gentleman's predecessor—whose absence we regret—say that responsibility for refugees coming into this country was that of His Majesty's Government and only the distribution of refugees was the province of the Federal Government?
§ Mr. DaviesYes, Sir, the basic responsibility regarding the admission of refugees is that of the Allied High Commission, but once they are in the territory it is a matter for the Federal Government. We have laid down policy concerning admission.