HC Deb 03 July 1917 vol 95 cc892-3
22. Mr. PETO

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many persons of Swiss nationality have been naturalised as British citizens since the beginning of the War; how many of them were of German parentage, and how many of them had by deed poll, or otherwise, changed their names; how many of them have removed from their previous addresses; whether the Home Office is, in all cases, aware of the present address of these naturalised aliens; and whether the question of restricting naturalisation in the case of persons of German parentage, whether Swiss or other nationality, during the War will be considered?

The UNDER-SECRETARY Of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Brace)

The number of persons of Swiss nationality naturalised since the beginning of the War is 124. The number since the commencement of the present year is eight. None of these were of German parentage, and it is the rule not to grant naturalisation in such cases. The other particulars asked for by the hon. Member are not available.