HC Deb 08 July 1942 vol 381 cc759-60
30. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that Maltese and Mauritians who are married, and have volunteered for service in the Royal Air Force, have been informed that allowances to wives are liable to be reduced to half that paid to wives of British soldiers; that in certain cases this reduction has been effected and has aroused resentment; that these Colonial volunteers frequently possess educational qualifications equal to British recruits and expect equality of treatment; and what steps he proposes to take to remove all racial or colour discrimination of this nature?

Mr. Harold Macmillan

My Noble Friend is making inquiries about this matter, which has recently been brought to his notice, and I will communicate the results of these inquiries to my hon. Friend as soon as possible.

Mr. Sorensen

While I thank the Minister for his reply, is he aware whether this distinction between coloured and white people has been operating?

Mr. Macmillan

It is quite new to us, and I must make inquiries before dealing with it.