HC Deb 05 August 1941 vol 373 cc1784-5
45. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister whether it is still intended to ask this House to pass legislation giving to allied States established in this country the power to call up compulsorily their nationals for service in the Armed Forces?

The Lord Privy Seal (Mr. Attlee)

It is hoped to submit to the House on reassembly after the Recess proposals for legislation authorising the military conscription of Allied nationals whose Governments are established in this country.

Mr. Mander

Could my right hon. Friend say whether that really is the intention of the Government, because a similar statement was made about a year ago and it has been repeated at intervals? Is it intended now definitely to take the matter up?

Mr. Attlee

Certainly, but my hon. Friend knows the difficulties of the subject, which have had to be considered with other Governments.

Colonel Arthur Evans

Does that decision apply to both sexes?

Mr. Attlee

I should like notice of that Question.