HC Deb 03 June 1942 vol 380 c656
21. Mr. Creech Jones

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether it will be arranged that in the formation of Home Guard, Civil Defence and other local units in the Colonial Empire, as far as practicable the natural leadership of the colonial peoples will be respected and all superior ranks be opened to men of capacity and leadership, without regard to colour?

Mr. Harold Macmillan

There is no bar on grounds of race or colour to membership of Home Guard and Civil Defence units in the Colonies, and my Noble Friend is confident that selections for the more responsible posts in those organisations are based solely on merit and capacity for leadership.

Mr. Creech Jones

Will the right hon. Gentleman give serious attention to the development of Home Guard organisations under the natural leadership of the Colonial people involved?

Mr. Macmillan

Yes, Sir.