While discussions continue over what part Harrow can play if any Ugandan Asians came to the borough, there are no up-to-date figures on the number of immigrants already here.
The publication of the 1971 Census breakdown for the Greater London Area which would contain immigration figures is not expected until the beginning of next year
A Somerset House spokesman for the publications told the Observer last week that there was no special delay on the publication of the census figures and he added that areas might have to be faced with a number of immigrants wishing to settle there without knowing accurately the number living there.
"There have been computer delays because of two fires recently which destroyed papers." he said.
Mr G.L. Thomas, Harrow Council's Director of Social Services, said the only figures on the number of immigrants living in the borough were those from the last census - six years ago. He said that the 1966 figure of 5,200 immigrants from all Commonwealth countries would bear little resemblance to the 1971 numbers.
Six years ago, Harrow was listed 27th out of the 32 London boroughs for the number of immigrants living in its area. Brent had a total of 26,620