HC Deb 19 February 1959 vol 600 cc91-2W
Mr. Patrick Maitland

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in what respect the proposals now being considered by the Committee of Experts drafting a convention for the reduction of cases of multiple nationality, referred to in Recommendation 164, 1958, of the Consultative Assembly of the Council of Europe, conflict with the principles embodied in the British Nationality Act, 1948.

Mr. R. Allan

The British Nationality Act, 1948, ensures that the acquisition or retention of a foreign nationality in no case involves loss of citizenship of the United Kingdom and Colonies. The present proposals are contrary to this principle.

Mr. Knox Cunningham

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what progress has been made in the consideration of Opinion 30, 1959, on the draft European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters, passed by the Consultative Assembly of the Council of Europe on 22nd January, 1959; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. R. Allan

Opinion 30, and the Draft Convention on Mutual Assistance on Criminal Matters, are to be considered by the Committee of Ministers at the next meeting of the Deputies on 2nd March. In the circumstances, it would be premature to make a statement now.