HC Deb 25 January 1940 vol 356 cc820-1W
Mr. Mender

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has any statement to make with reference to the position in Palestine; the number of Jews who have landed there during the past three months; and the number refused admission?

Mr. M. MacDonald

The situation in Palestine continues to improve. During the three months October to December, 1939, 3,042 Jews entered Palestine as authorised immigrants. These were immigrants whose entry was authorised under the April-September quota, but who had been unable to reach Palestine during that period. In addition, 459 Jews entered illegally by sea, and it is possible that some others entered undetected. There was no question of refusing admission to immigrants.