HC Deb 05 May 1913 vol 52 cc1697-8W
Mr. GEORGE LLOYD

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether Colonial naturalisation operates only within the limits of the Colony of which naturalisation is effected; and, if so, whether he will take steps to see that naturalisation in one part of the British Empire shall be effective for all other parts of the British Empire?

Mr. HARCOURT

Naturalisation under a Colonial law is only operative as regards the status of the person naturalised within the limits of the Colony, but persons naturalised in a Colony enjoy everywhere the good offices of His Majesty's Diplomatic and Consular officers. The anomalous state of the law of naturalisation was considered by the Imperial Conference in 1911, and it is hoped to introduce shortly legislation amending the law in accordance with the wishes of the Conference.