HC Deb 02 May 1918 vol 105 cc1707-8
46. Major HUNT

asked the Prime Minister whether, in cases where un-naturalised enemy aliens, naturalised people of enemy origin, and aliens of neutral countries have taken the businesses, shops, or employment of our own men serving in the War, these businesses, shops, and employment will be given back to our own men on their return after the War; and, if not, will he bring in legislation which will have this effect?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Bridgeman)

I have been asked to answer this question. The Minister of Labour is most anxious that all men serving in His Majesty's Forces should, wherever possible, be able to return to their old employment after the War, and this is one of the questions upon which he proposes to consult the Labour Resettlement Committee. There are obvious difficulties in the suggestions made by the hon. and gallant Member; but if he will furnish us with any practical proposals in the matter I shall be happy to lay them before the Labour Resettlement Committee.

Major HUNT

Is it not the business of the Government to look after these men and see that they do not do more than can possibly be avoided in the way of taking men for the Army while aliens take on their business?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

That is what the Government wish to do. We thought that the hon. and gallant Member might help us with some suggestion.

Mr. G. TERRELL

Will the hon. Gentleman publish the names of this Committee, seeing that it is one of many Committees?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I will see if they can be published.

Mr. BUTCHER

In view of the urgency of this business, will my hon. Friend urge this Committee to come to a speedy decision, expressing the views of the Government as to how these abuses can be avoided?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

Yes; we will do our best to expedite matters.

Major HUNT

Have not the Government any suggestion of their own?