HC Deb 18 February 1942 vol 377 c1778
15. Dr. Morgan

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether it is still to be the policy of His Majesty's Government not to recruit inhabitants of the West Indian Colonies in special West Indian regiments as has been done in all past wars; whether, having regard to the best use of man-power in African and tropical climates, such a policy will be reversed; and what special reasons exist for scattering West Indian volunteers in different British services and regiments rather than collecting them into West Indian regiments from different Colonies?

The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Harold Macmillan)

For various reasons, it has not so far been found practicable to raise special West Indian units. West Indian volunteers with special qualifications are encouraged to join British units in which their qualifications will be most useful.

Dr. Morgan

In view of past experience, would it not be better to put these people into regiments so that they can give good service in African warfare?

Mr. Macmillan

That matter is under consideration.