HC Deb 15 February 1954 vol 523 c1638
33. Mr. N. Nicolson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when Her Majesty's Government intend to ratify the United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

The Convention will enter into force on 22nd April, 1954. Her Majesty's Government will deposit an instrument of ratification before that date.

Mr. Nicolson

Is my hon. Friend aware that the answer will give the greatest possible satisfaction to many refugees scattered all over the world who for many years have been without any fixed legal status?

Mr. S. Silverman

While agreeing with most of the implications of that supplementary question, may I ask the hon. Gentleman if he will bear in mind that the satisfaction will be all the greater if he will draw the attention of the Home Secretary to this Convention and point out the grave and substantial fact that the recent Aliens Order that this House has now confirmed is in breach of the Convention?

Mr. Dodds-Parker

I will certainly look at what the hon. Gentleman says, but no country has done more than this country since the war for refugees.