HC Deb 23 January 1940 vol 356 cc353-4
10. Mr. Leach

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is now prepared to grant freedom of enlistment into the British Army to friendly Czech citizens as well as to Germans and Austrians now in this country?

Mr. Stanley

Under the Order-in-Council issued on 28th September last, any alien may hold a commission or may be entered or enlisted in any of His Majesty's Forces as if he were a British subject. Czecho-Slovakian nationals applying for enlistment are, however, being encouraged to enlist for service in the Czecho-Slovak Legion in France.

Mr. Leach

I understand there is no order to that effect and it is entirely voluntary. Is that right?

Mr. Stanley

That is right.

Viscountess Astor

If one of these Czechs were known to be a Cornmunist—

Mr. Boothby

Or a Fascist.

Viscountess Astor

Or a Fascist, would he be allowed to enlist?

Mr. T. Williams

Does the reply which the right hon. Gentleman gave also refer to Poles who happen to be in this country and who are willing to fight against Germany?

Mr. Stanley

The Question was specifically asked about Czechs.

Mr. Denville

Would the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to form a foreign legion in this country?