HC Deb 24 January 1957 vol 563 c392
46. Mr. Osborne

asked the Prime Minister what is Her Majesty's Government's policy regarding the increase in emigration of young British men and women with high scientific qualifications, and the corresponding increase in immigration into this country of coloured people without tests of either health, technical skill or criminal record; and, in view of the recent increase in unemployment, what action the Government proposes to take, and what co-ordinating measures are to be taken.

The Prime Minister

There are no figures showing how many scientists have emigrated. Her Majesty's Government are continuing to watch emigration and immigration trends, but no special action is called for at present. It would not be right for the Government to impose any restriction on emigration which has contributed so much to the development of the Commonwealth. The immigration of coloured people, chiefly from Her Majesty's West Indian territories, began to decline during the latter months of last year. I would deprecate any reflection that may be cast on the standards of health and conduct of these immigrants.

Mr. Osborne

Is the Prime Minister not aware that more than 500 million people are technically entitled to come to this country from the Commonwealth? In view of the impossibility of that right being exercised without limit, and in view of the complexity of the problems that these things have caused, will he not appoint a commission to inquire into the matter and to report to this House what ought to be done about it?

The Prime Minister

Five hundred million subjects of the Crown may be technically able to come to this country, but it would not be a very practical operation.