HC Deb 24 June 1953 vol 516 cc1874-5
3. Mr. Baker

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action he has taken or proposes to take concerning the treatment of Mr. Cedric Belfrage, a British subject, by various United States Congressional committees and by the United States immigration authorities.

4. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what representations he has made to the United States State Department on behalf of Mr. Cedric Belfrage, a British subject resident in the United States of America for many years, now detained on Ellis Island.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Normal deportation proceedings have been instituted by the United States immigration authorities against Mr. Belfrage. A report on the case has been obtained from Her Majesty's Embassy at Washington, but no other action is at present contemplated. Mr. Belfrage is represented by an American lawyer. He has now been released on bail pending deportation hearing.

Mr. Driberg

Although Mr. Belfrage has been released—since these Questions were put down—is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that he is still subject to certain disabilities, such as having to report twice a week at Ellis Island? Is there any reason why a British subject should be treated like this when he has broken no law of the United States? Is not this merely part of Senator McCarthy's campaign of persecution against all liberal opinion? Cannot the right hon. and learned Gentleman protest more vigorously?

Mr. Lloyd

At the moment deportation proceedings are taking place, and they are based upon certain Acts of the United States Government, passed by their appropriate machinery. Mr. Belfrage is to be represented at these proceedings. We must wait for the result of the proceedings before making comment.