HC Deb 26 April 1917 vol 92 cc2566-7
3. Mr. BLAIR

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what progress, if any, has been made during the last fortnight as to the enlistment of friendly aliens of military age; and is he aware of the feeling growing up against the Government owing to its seeming inaction in this matter?

Lord R. CECIL

I hope that a Bill dealing with this subject will be introduced very shortly. The delay has been due to the necessary negotiations with our Allies.

Mr. HOGGE

Will these men be called before the discharged and wounded men who are to be called up?

Lord R. CECIL

I think the hon. Member had better wait for the Bill.

Mr. OUTHWAITE

Will it apply to American subjects of military age as well as to Russian?

Lord R. CECIL

I think it will be better to wait for the Bill, rather than that I should give a preliminary account of it which might not be accurate.