HC Deb 03 February 1955 vol 536 cc143-4W
87. Squadron Leader Cooper

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department the total number of emigrants to this country from the West Indies for the year 1954, expressed on a monthly basis; and, in view of difficulties which will arise in consequence of this unrestricted entry, what steps he proposes to take to bring the policy of Her Majesty's Government into line with that of other parts of the British Commonwealth.

Major Lloyd-George

Precise figures cannot be given, but it is estimated that over 9,000 migrants left the West Indies for the United Kingdom during 1954. I am informed by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies that the only monthly figures which can be given are in respect of intended departures from Jamaica. which are given below. No restriction could be placed upon the entry of British subjects to the United Kingdom without legislation.

Intended departures from Jamaica for emigration to the United Kingdom during 1954
January … … … 242
February … … … 293
March … … … 434
April … … … 937
May … … … 367
June … … … 327
July … … … 464
August … … … 452
September … … … 824
October … … … 1,398
November … … … 1,101
December … … … 911
7,750

Note: These figures are based on reports from the Governor of Jamaica.

90. Captain Kerby

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he intends taking to control the further immigration of Jamaica's 150,000 unemployed into the United Kingdom.

97 and 98. Mr. R. Bell

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) whether he has any statement to make about the continued flow of Jamaicans into this country;

(2) whether he has yet considered the practicability of imposing upon those wishing to immigrate to this country from the Colonies requirements and conditions comparable to those which are imposed by British overseas territories upon people from the United Kingdom wishing to emigrate to them.

Major Lloyd-George

Her Majesty's Government have these matters under consideration. I regret that I am unable to make any statement at present.