§ 31. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what progress is being made towards his declared intention of seeking powers to deport people from Commonwealth countries who are convicted of crimes.
§ The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. R. A. Butler)I am keeping this matter under review, but at present I have nothing to add to the Answer which I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Liverpool, Kirkdale (Mr. N. Pannell) on 17th March last.
§ Mr. HyndIs the Home Secretary aware that anyone going from this country to a Commonwealth country and breaking the law there is, quite rightly, liable for deportation? Is he aware that many magistrates in this country would welcome similar powers here?
§ Mr. ButlerI do not think the ultimate power would lie with the magistrates, even if cases may be referred by them. If it were done, the ultimate power would lie with the Secretary of State— —
§ Mr. ButlerIt would be a matter of reference. I am aware of the situation as broadly outlined by the hon. Member, but from consultations we have had with our fellow Governments in some of these territories the view has not been unanimous.