§ 21. Mr. F. Noel-Bakerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he will complete his study of the present system of registration and notification laid down in the Aliens Order, 1953; what changes he proposes to introduce; and the reason for the long delay.
§ Mr. RentonThis is a complex and difficult matter involving many consultations. My right hon. Friend will make a statement as soon as possible.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerCan the hon. and learned Gentleman give any indication when the statement is likely to be made? Although no one wants to diminish the rights of British citizens to enter British and Commonwealth Territories freely, is it not anomalous that we draw a distinction between people from Malaya, the West Indies and Africa, and people from Western Europe and elsewhere? Is it really necessary to subject the latter to a complicated rigmarole which compares very unfavourably with immigration regulations in force in nearly every other country in Europe?
§ Mr. RentonThe hon. Member is trying to fire his second barrel at the same target, but the target has not been erected on this occasion. His supplementary question is quite irrelevant to the Question on the Order Paper.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIn order to clarify the mind of the hon. and learned Gentleman, I beg leave to raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.