The Justice Ministry announced today that illegal immigrants henceforth will be turned back at the Belgian frontier, although regulations with regard to political refugees will be maintained.
It was stated in official circles that the measure was motivated by the that nearly 7,000 Jewish illegal immigrants from central Europe had entered Belgium since the Government decided not to turn back refugees not having proper credentials. The authorities were said to fear that in the event of international complications those refugees who are now being supported by relief committees would become public charges.
Dr. Max Gottschalk, head of the Jewish Refugee Committees, declared that committee had not been consulted prior to the Government’s new decision. He pointed out, however, that the order was understandable since overpopulated Belgium had already received more than 6,000 Jewish illegal immigrants compared with 8,000 admitted by France, with its far larger population, less than 5,000 by Holland and under 3,000 by Switzerland. Nevertheless, he said, the decision to sent back new illegal immigrants was regrettable. He expressed the hope that it would not be applied to refugees already in Belgium.
Anti-Jewish leaflets alleging that refugees were taking jobs from Belgians were widely distributed here. Placards showing Jews cutting prices were posted in many parts of the city. A Rexist candidate named Hainaut was arrested for the second time today for “insulting anti-Jewish behavior.”
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