HC Deb 22 June 1943 vol 390 c986
25. Mr. Mathers

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the refusal to allow Bombardier E. Joannides, a Cypriot, to hold a commission in the Army is due to political or racial objections as he is a man of proved ability and capacity of the standard required for commissioned rank?

Mr. A. Henderson

My right hon. Friend examined this case personally before he wrote to my hon. Friend and satisfied himself that the decision that this man should not be commissioned was in the best interests of the Service.

Mr. Mathers

Is it not realised that this kind of thing leaves the impression of a stigma upon this man, and creates a bad impression among a number of his friends who are anxious to serve this country well, but are discouraged by the treatment of their compatriot?

Mr. Henderson

There should not be any question of stigma attaching to an individual who is not considered suitable to be a commissioned officer.

Mr. Kirby

Is it not a fact that Members of this House have sons and brothers serving in the Army without commissions?