§ 4. Mr. G. Straussasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that there are, in the Pioneer Corps, many friendly aliens of high technical qualifications spending their time doing manual labour; and whether, although these men are content to serve the Allied cause in any capacity, steps can be taken to make better use of their capacities?
§ Captain MargessonYes, Sir. Arrangements are now being made whereby suitably qualified members of the Pioneer Corps may be transferred to duties where their special qualifications will be of most value to the Army.
§ Mr. StraussWill that be done with reasonable speed? Is a general survey being made?
§ Captain MargessonThe first transfers under the scheme are expected to take place in the near future.
§ Mr. BellengerWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman extend the provision which he has now announced to the whole of the British Army and not limit it to those of foreign nationality who happen to be engaged in the Pioneer Corps? There are many outside that small category whose services could be better utilised.
§ Miss Eleanor RathboneWill these transfers also take place in cases where the most suitable unit for alien services is a combatant unit?
§ Captain MargessonI have answered the Question on the Paper. If further Questions are put, I must ask for notice.