HC Deb 06 February 1961 vol 634 cc5-6
6. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Labour on what date he received an application for a labour permit to employ Leni Riefenstahl in film production in Great Britain; if he has consulted the trade unions in the industry about this application; and if, in view of her long record of pro-Nazi activities, he will refuse his consent.

Mr. Hare

I have received no application.

Mr. Swingler

Does that reply mean that all the publicity boost has been for nothing and that, in spite of what has appeared in the Press, the Ministry knows nothing of this person's wishes to produce films in this country?

Mr. Hare

I have received no application. The other day there was a film on the B.B.C., but it was filmed in Germany. I cannot give any more information than I now have.

Sir B. Janner

When considering these applications, will the Minister remember that very careful consideration should be given before people who have been identified with the Nazi movement are permitted into this country, in view of the terrible and brutal way in which that movement was run?

Mr. Hare

My right hon. Friend the Home Secretary also has duties in this respect, and clearly both he and I would carefully consider any application of this sort.