HC Deb 04 February 1948 vol 446 c275W
11. Mr. Gammans

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many of the Gibraltar refugees in Northern Ireland have come to London at their own expense; and if he will make a statement regarding the repatriation of these people to Gibraltar.

Mr. Creech Jones

Since 15th December 542 Gibraltar evacuees have travelled to London at their own expense and approximately 750 remain in Northern Ireland. The Government of Gibraltar hope to repatriate 650 evacuees to the Colony at intervals during this year. The first party of 100 should leave towards the end of this month. A more rapid programme of repatriation is prevented by the shortage of housing in the Colony, a situation which the Gibraltar Government are remedying as fast as circumstances permit.