HC Deb 10 October 1940 vol 365 cc488-9W
Mr. C. Wilson

asked the Home Secretary whether he can give information as to the number of aliens of A B and C classes interned; the numbers and countries to which they have been transported; the numbers released and those still interned, and the numbers regarded as dangerous; and whether a weekly or monthly return can be made as to the progress of release?

Mr. H. Morrison

The number of German and Austrian civilians who have been interned in this country is approximately 22,200–1,700 in Category A, 5,000 in Category B, 13,200 in Category C and 2,300 who were not classified by tribunals. Of these 22,200 approximately 4,400 have been transferred to Canada and 2,200 to Australia. Some 4,600 have been released. About 11,000 therefore are still interned in this country. The question how many of these people should be regarded as dangerous is one of opinion and degree and cannot be answered statistically. As regards the last part of the Question I will consider what information can usefully be published from time to time.