HC Deb 22 December 1938 vol 342 cc3080-1
48. Mr. Mander

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the existence in England of a branch of the German Workers' Front extensively organised and compelling every German subject in this country to belong to it; and whether he will take steps to deport the persons responsible for this system which is contrary to the interests of this country?

Sir S. Hoare

I am aware that there is a branch of this organisation in this country. There can be, of course, no question that German nationals have under our laws complete freedom of choice in this matter and the use of intimidation with a view to compelling them to join against their will would be a punishable offence. If in any case there were evidence that intimidation had been used, appropriate action would be taken.

Mr. Mander

Is the Home Secretary aware that many of these German nationals feel afraid not to belong to this organisation because of what might happen to their relatives in Germany, and will the right hon. Gentleman seriously consider closing down the whole organisation?

Sir S. Hoare

That is another question, but I can tell the hon. Gentleman that in any case brought to my attention in which intimidation has been proved appropriate action will at once be taken.

Sir G. Fox

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that it is in the national interest that German servants employed in this country should be compelled to go to this organisation and to give information of what they have heard in the houses where they are employed?

Sir S. Hoare

That is also another question, but I should certainly disapprove of any action of that kind.

Mr. Stephen

Would the right hon. Gentleman take action if it were a case of a Russian Bolshevik workers' front?

Sir S. Hoare

I should take action if the law were broken, no matter by whom.

Mr. Mander

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that if the law is broken and action is taken by his Department, the effect on the persons' relatives in Germany may, none the less, be very serious indeed? That is the real difficulty.

Sir S. Hoare

Much as I should deplore a situation of that kind, it is obviously one for which I am not responsible.