HC Deb 22 June 1939 vol 348 c2436
21. Mr. De Chair

asked the Minister of Labour what is the position of aliens between the ages of 20 and 21 years, permanently resident in this country, in view of the Military Training Act, 1939; whether it is intended to afford them an apportunity, although debarred from military service, of showing their loyalty to the country of their adoption by doing work of national importance in labour camps for six months; and whether he can give an estimate of the approximate number involved?

Mr. E. Brown

The Military Training Act applies only to British subjects. I have no authority to organise camps for aliens, nor can I give an estimate of the number of aliens aged 20 to 21 resident here.

Mr. Mander

Is the Minister aware that a number of these aliens are only too anxious to offer their services in the Armed Forces of this country, and cannot they be given the opportunity of doing so?