§ 29. Mr. Peter Archerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will reconsider his decision to deport Mr. Barto George Gilbert.
§ Mr. SharplesMr. Gilbert entered the country with false papers. The deception was subsequently discovered, but he escaped from custody. My right hon. Friend will consider his position when he is apprehended.
§ Mr. ArcherIs the hon. Gentleman aware that Mr. Gilbert is not being apprehended, because having deserted from the American forces on grounds of conscience, he knows that if he gives himself up he will be sent back to the American authorities? In view of the special circumstances in this case in which the man came to this country to stand by his wife at a time when her parents died here, could not the Minister introduce an element of compassion into the situation?
§ Mr. SharplesThis is a person who came here illegally on a false Canadian passport, representing himself to have been born in the United Kingdom. He is liable to be sent back on those grounds irrespective of any other consideration which may arise.