§ 8. Mr. Priceasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what steps are being taken to enable French refugee sailors of the mercantile marine and fishermen, who are now in this country, to secure a livelihood, and to assist in the Allied cause?
§ Mr. ButlerArrangements have been made for those French sailors who are willing to continue to serve in their own ships to do so, sailing under the British and French flags, receiving the same pay and working in the same conditions as British seamen. Many have accepted these conditions, though others have opted to return to France and are now awaiting repatriation. Every effort is being made to enable French fishermen now in this country to go to sea and fish from their own vessels, thus contributing to the nation's supplies of food.
§ Mr. PriceHas every effort been made to represent to these sailors how much it is possible for them to help the Allied cause? Is every effort being made to put that point of view to them?
§ Mr. ButlerI think they realise that, and I am glad to say that many of them are offering to do so. Others, however, have opted to return to their own country.