§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many Hong Kong seamen who had served in the Falkland Islands were detained by immigration officers after they arrived in the United Kingdom; for how long the detention lasted; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RaisonNone. Hong Kong seamen employed on board ships of the Royal Navy are subject to control under the Immigration Act 1971 but when 87 seamen arrived at RAF Brize Norton on 24 June 1982 they were given leave to enter the country without individual examination by 329W immigration officers. As they had lost their travel and identity documents in action, arrangements were made by the Hong Kong Government Office in London for replacement documents to be issued immediately to enable those who wished to do so to return to Hong Kong with the minimum of delay.
Ten more Hong Kong seamen arrived at Southampton on board the QE2. They were interviewed by immigration officers before the ship berthed. Five were given leave to enter the country. Five were returned to Hong Kong at their request.
§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received concerning the detention by immigration officers of Hong Kong seamen who had served in the South Atlantic.
§ Mr. RaisonWe received one letter from a member of the public through a right hon. Member.