§ 46. Mr. Sandysasked the Prime Minister whether, in order to facilitate the immediate mobilisation of the services of the entire nation upon the outbreak of a war, it is his intention to introduce a system of universal national registration, the purpose of which would be to allocate in advance the duties, whether military or civilian, which each individual according to his or her age, sex, physique, and qualifications would, in the event of war, be called upon to perform?
§ The Prime MinisterA scheme for compulsory national registration in time of war, if the Government of the day should so decide, has been in existence for some years. Proposals for compulsory registration in peace time have also been considered, but on balance the advantages to be derived therefrom have been found to be outweighed by the difficulties and opposition which would have to be surmounted.
§ Mr. BellengerCan the Prime Minister say whether any machinery exists in the Government Departments for putting into operation immediately at the outbreak of war a system such as this?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir.
§ Mr. ManderWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that there will be the strongest opposition to anything of the kind, unless we have, as we can have, a united national foreign policy?
Mr. De la BèreWill the hon. Member for Wolverhampton, East (Mr. Mander) do something for national unity?
§ Sir William DavisonCannot we have collective registration?