§ 45. Major Stourtonasked the Prime Minister whether His Majesty's Government will hasten the review of their attitude towards the principle of establishing a compulsory register in order to convince the Governments of those countries with whom contact has been established, and who desire to preserve their independence and territorial integrity, that, in the event of a national emergency, Great Britain is prepared to play an active role?
§ 48. Mr. Boothbyasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the gravity of the international situation, His Majesty's Government will immediately reconsider their decision not to compile a compulsory national register?
§ The Prime MinisterThe recent decision of His Majesty's Government to double the Territorial Field Army in order to provide scope for the practical expression of the spirit of voluntary service now manifest should be sufficient evidence of the determination of this country to play an active role in the event of emergency. The establishment of a complete compulsory register at this stage could only hinder the present scheme of voluntary recruitment with which we are rapidly pushing forward in order to meet the needs of the present situation.
§ Mr. BoothbyMay I ask whether preparations have been made by the Government for a compulsory national register should the necessity arise?
§ The Prime MinisterThe answer to that question has already been given.
§ Major StourtonIs the Prime Minister aware that if this step were taken by His Majesty's Government it would have the overwhelming support of public opinion?
§ Mr. ManderIs it not remarkable that so many of those who are urging compulsion in one form or another are diehards?
§ Mr. SandysIn view of the decision of the House last December to review this matter at the end of March, can the Prime Minister say whether he will give an opportunity to the House after Easter to review the whole position of the voluntary register?
§ The Prime MinisterI have no reason to suppose that a review after Easter will change the opinion I have expressed.