Oral Answers to Questions — Refugees.

– in the House of Commons am ar 6 Chwefror 1939.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Mr Harry Day Mr Harry Day , Southwark Central

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government have approached other nations with a view to raising jointly the requisite finance for the extensive preparations necessary to render the area of British Guiana, mentioned by him, suitable for Jewish immigration; if not, is it the intention of the Government to do so, or do they intend to act alone?

Photo of Mr R.A. Butler Mr R.A. Butler , Saffron Walden

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies informed the hon. Members for Dudley (Mr. Joel) and East Birkenhead (Mr. White) on 31st January, a Commission of Inquiry will shortly arrive in British Guiana to examine the possibility of the settlement of refugees in that Colony. Consideration of the method of financing any settlement which may prove possible must await the Commission's report.

Photo of Mr Harry Day Mr Harry Day , Southwark Central

Has any approach been made to His Majesty's Government by other Governments on this subject?

Photo of Mr R.A. Butler Mr R.A. Butler , Saffron Walden

I should want notice of that question.