§ Wing-Commander Jamesasked the Home Secretary whether he will state the number of certificates of naturalisation granted during each of the last 10 years to the latest available date; and if he can give an assurance that there is no intention of increasing the number granted above the average figure?
§ Sir S. HoareThe figures are: 1929, 1,149; 1930, 1,409; 1931, 2,186; 1932, 1,741; 1933, 1,504; 1934, 1,363; 1935,1466W 1,902; 1936, 2,267; 1937, 1,804; 1938, 2,158; 1939 (first quarter), 783.
The variations are not due to any raising or lowering of the standard, but are due principally to fluctuation in the number of applicants who have the necessary qualifications. Careful inquiry is always made to ensure that certificates are only granted to persons who, in addition to possessing the qualifications prescribed by Statute, are likely to prove loyal citizens worthy of the privilege of British nationality. The Statute empowers me to grant or withhold a certificate as I think most conducive to the public good, and for this purpose I have to take into consideration many matters. But I should not consider myself justified in making it my aim to restrict the number of certificates granted to a uniform level.