HC Deb 23 March 1967 vol 743 cc302-3W
34. Mrs. Joyce Butler

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will investigate the circumstances in which Miss Barbro Eriksson was detained for two hours by immigration officers at Gatwick Airport when she was visiting this country on a charter flight in company with some 40 other girl students; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ennals

Miss Eriksson was referred for medical examination by the immigration officer, in the exercise of his discretion under the Aliens Order, to assist him in deciding whether to grant leave to land. After examination she was granted leave to land as a visitor, as she had requested. The total delay, including the time taken for the medical examination, amounted to about 45 minutes. I sincerely regret the inconvenience which this caused; but, having considered reports, I have no reason to believe that the immigration officer acted unreasonably or failed to show proper courtesy. I have written to Miss Eriksson explaining the position.

Mr. Rose

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why a Swedish student, Miss Barbro Eriksson, was required to undergo a medical examination at Gatwick Airport on 17th March.

Mr. Fisher

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what was the purpose of the detention and examination of Miss Barbro Eriksson on her arrival at Gatwick Airport;

(2) if he will check the facts about the treatment of Miss Barbro Eriksson at Gatwick Airport.

Mr. Ennals

I would refer to the Answer I gave earlier to a similar Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Wood Green (Mrs. Joyce Butler).