§ 45. Sir E. Erringtonasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that there are many British subjects, including those from the United Kingdom, who have been expelled from Egypt without their possessions; and if he will appoint a Minister or Ministers whose responsibilities would include the co-ordination, administration and publication of the facilities which exist for such expelled citizens, in order to avoid approaches to the officers of various Ministries who disclaim responsibility.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerI have been asked to reply.
As has already been announced, my right hon. and gallant Friend the Home Secretary has undertaken responsibility for co-ordinating the arrangements for the reception of British subjects returning to this country from Egypt.
At the moment, emergency arrangements are in operation for meeting their immediate needs through the National Assistance Board. Many of them have friends or relatives who can receive 72W them, and, where necessary, these refugees are being provided with funds for their immediate needs. Accommodation in hostels is also available for those who require it.
As regards the future, Her Majesty's Government have made an immediate grant of £100,000 to the Anglo-Egyptian Aid Society to enable them to give prompt relief to those in need. Refugees requiring assistance—for example, towards the cost of their maintenance by friends or relatives—should make application to the Society, or in case of urgent necessity to the local office of the National Assistance Board. The Society has also made a public appeal for funds and, as trustees of any funds so subscribed, will use them as it thinks fit for the benefit of the refugees.
The Anglo-Egyptian Aid Society is working in close co-operation with other voluntary organisations and has the active support of all the Government Departments concerned.