§ 27. Sir L. Plummerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department under what permits Mr. Emile Bustani, a Lebanese, enters this country; how many visits he has paid during this year; and what is the purpose of his visits.
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeMr. Bustani has made seven short visits to this country during this year on visas authorised abroad. According to the information given to the immigration officer, five of these were business visits, one was in transit, and one was an official mission.
§ Sir L. PlummerWhile not wanting to interfere with the liberty of a man to express himself when he comes to this country to put his country's point of view, may I ask the Home Secretary to make representations to Mr. Bustani that when he comes here again he expresses himself with moderation so as not to give offence to many citizens of this country?
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeI have no idea what the hon. Gentleman is referring to. Perhaps he will be good enough to let me know and I will certainly look at it. One day we are criticised for not letting people in and another day for letting them in.
§ Mr. StokesIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that Mr. Bustani is a Member of Parliament for the Lebanon and is a highly reputed citizen in that country?
§ Mr. ShinwellIs he also aware that Mr. Bustani indulges in offensive propaganda when he comes to this country on behalf of the Arab States against the State of Israel?
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeHaving heard these three questions, I cannot help feeling that it is a good thing that my immigration officers are non-political.