§ Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many Chilean refugees he expects to admit to the United Kingdom; and if he will take steps to avoid any security risks in this connection.
§ Mr. Alexander W. LyonNo quota has been fixed and applications are considered carefully on their merits and scrutinised for personal acceptability, including security. The number of applications so far received is 562 of which 158 have so far been granted.
§ Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what arrangements are being made to give financial and social assistance to Chilean refugees.
§ Mr. Alexander W. LyonThe Home Office, in consultation with other Departments concerned, is in touch with a number of voluntary organisations about the reception and resettlement of refugees from Chile and their introduction to the social and other services. Provided they register for employment they will be entitled, in terms of the Supplementary Benefit Act 1966, to claim supplementary 305W benefit for themselves and their dependants. The Government have already indicated their readiness to provide assistance for training and research awards for suitably qualified persons.