§ 28 and 29. Mr. Keelingasked the Home Secretary (1) whether he is aware that his instruction to local authorities to dismiss French, in common with other aliens engaged on air-raid precautions duties, has caused indignation; and whether he will withdraw it;
(2) whether he is aware that the application of curfew and other orders, regarding aliens, to Frenchmen living in this country has caused indignation; and whether he has any statement to make?
§ Sir J. AndersonI have recently made Orders the effect of which is to exempt French citizens from the "curfew," the restrictions on the possession and use of bicycles, motor cars, cameras, field-glasses, etc., and the restrictions relating to the entry and residence of aliens in areas declared to be aliens' protected areas. In view of these Orders, I am giving immediate consideration to the position of French subjects in relation to the Civil Defence Services.
§ Mr. KeelingDoes not my right hon. Friend think that it is extremely regrettable that Frenchmen were ever put upon the same footing as other aliens in this matter; and can he say when he expects to deal with the question of their dismissal from air-raid precautions duties?
§ Sir J. AndersonIt is being dealt with now.
§ Mr. Glenvil HallCannot the right hon. Gentleman extend these facilities to Americans, many of whom are in the country and want to help in agriculture and in other ways?
§ Sir J. AndersonThe restrictions that were placed upon aliens in certain areas of the country were placed upon those aliens at the urgent request of the military authorities, and it is not possible to differentiate nicely between one category of aliens and another. In regard to French citizens, the action recently taken was taken in consideration of the reciprocal action on the part of the French Government.