HC Deb 04 August 1966 vol 733 cc675-6
32. Mr. Russell Kerr

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will now permit the admission to this country of Mr. John Burley, an Australian former employee of the illegal Smith régime in Rhodesia; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Foley

This is not a straightforward case, but, if Mr. Burley makes an application for an entry certificate, I am willing to give it sympathetic consideration.

Mr. Kerr

Is my hon. Friend aware that his Answer will be met with deep gratification, containing as it does the implication that a mistake was made by the immigration authorities on this occasion?

Mr. Foley

I should point out that Mr. Burley was refused admittance because he did not have an entry certificate. He had been advised by the British High Commission in Salisbury that it was doubtful whether he would be admitted. In the light of further facts which have come to our attention, we have reached the decision which I have indicated.