§ Mr. Eldon Griffithsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what contingency plans he has made for a possible substantial exodus of Rhodesians wishing to settle in the United Kingdom, on the same basis as the arrangements made for Asians who left Uganda in 1973–74;
(2) what preparations he is making for the reception of large numbers of Rhodesians of all races who may seek refuge in the United Kingdom, in the event of any further breakdown of law and order in Rhodesia.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesAs my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister said in the House on 17 January the Government are continuing their efforts to bring about a peaceful solution to the present conflict in Rhodesia. We hope that the possibility envisaged by the hon. Member will not arise, but the situation is kept constantly under review.
§ Mr. Eldon Griffithsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many Rhodesians have been admitted to Great Britain for temporary or permanent residence in each of the years since 1968; and how many of these have been or are students in full-time education, returning citizens or residents of the United Kingdom and persons claiming political asylum, respectively.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesI shall reply as soon as possible.