§ 53. Mr. Wadeasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how long notice he gave to Mrs. Anna Horrat Marcovic before service and execution of his deportation order on her at 8 a.m. on Thursday, 1st May.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerMrs. Marcovic, whose permitted stay in this country expired last October, was repeatedly instructed to leave, the last occasion being on 4th March; and I stated on 28th March, in reply to the hon. Member, that I was not prepared to agree to her remaining here any longer. As she made no arrangements to go, the deportation order I made was carried into effect on 1st and 2nd May.
§ Mr. WadeIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the only desire of this unfortunate stateless person was to be allowed to remain in this country with her own family? Has there not been some lack of humanity in dealing with her case? Is it normal for the police 608 to call at eight o'clock in the morning and to tell a woman that she must be ready to leave the country within half-an-hour? Will he say what instructions are given when a deportation order is made?
§ Mr. ButlerI cannot go into the whole merits of the case. Each of these cases is examined with great humanity and care. I might add that the relatives of Mrs. Marcovic have written to the Chief Constable of Warwickshire expressing thanks for the kindness and consideration shown by the superintendent, officers and men of the Stratford Police in carrying out the instructions of the Home Office. I am sorry about this case, but I have to follow certain rules.