HC Deb 18 March 1971 vol 813 cc1626-7
8. Mr. Moyle

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimate he has made of the likely effect of the proposed new immigration law on the housing problems of immigrants; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Maudling

I do not consider that the effect will be significant.

Mr. Moyle

In view of the delicate nature of race relations problems, should there not be Departmental-sponsored research into the social implications of new legislation on this subject before it is introduced?

Mr. Maudling

I do not see that that arises from the Question on the Order Paper.

Mr. Lane

Will not one of the benefits of the new Bill be that, when an effective system of immigration control is seen to be operating, it will be easier to concentrate on the vital issues in community relations, such as housing and education, to which my right hon. Friend referred last week?

Mr. Maudling

Yes, I wholeheartedly agree with that.

Mr. Freeson

The Secretary of State said earlier that the Measure will have a minimal effect on housing. Is he aware that there are about 18 million people living in Britain in slums and grossly substandard houses as compared with a total of three million to 3½ million immigrants of all kinds? What possible connection has the Bill with solving community relations problems such as have been referred to in housing matters?

Mr. Maudling

I was asked what effect the new Bill would have on the housing problems of immigrants. My point is that as none of those already here is affected, it will have only a minimal effect.