HC Deb 13 February 1969 vol 777 c1547
10. Dr. Gray

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why he allowed a foreign visitor to enter this country on the sole condition that he undertook not to study Scientology during part of his stay.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

Mr. Fahrner was refused leave to land in accordance with the statement made to the House on 25th July, 1968. Subsequently he said that he had reasons for coming here other than the study of Scientology, and he was granted leave to land for two weeks. This took a considerable time and accounted for the delay Mr. Fahrner experienced at the airport. He left the country the following day.

Dr. Gray

Is it not absurd to prohibit adults visiting this country to study Scientology or any other philosophy or religion? More importantly, as the whole matter is sub judice and the subject of investigation by a committee, should not my hon. Friend be impartial and lift all bans on Scientologists visiting this country meanwhile?

Mr. Rees

No, Sir.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

Can it seriously be said that Scientology is a religion, and are there not hundreds of parents who have been very upset that their children have been sucked into Scientology, have wasted money and been mentally upset?

Mr. Rees

An inquiry is taking place to answer these philosophical questions.