HC Deb 21 October 1943 vol 392 cc1497-8
27. Wing-Commander Hulbert

asked the Home Secretary whether, consequent upon a state of war existing between Italy and Germany, he will clarify the status of Italian nationals in Great Britain; whether they will now enjoy the privileges accorded to friendly aliens; and whether it is proposed to release any Italians now interned?

Mr. H. Morrison

The declaration of war by Italy upon Germany does not alter the legal status of Italian nationals in Great Britain. As regards treatment, Italians at liberty have been able, for a long time past, to make application for release from the special restrictions to which they were subject as aliens of enemy nationality, and this has been granted in cases where it was clear that they were anti-Fascist and in sympathy with the Allied cause. Of those who were interned when Italy entered the war on the side of the Axis, the majority have been released, either because they came within the categories of eligibility for release laid down by the White Paper (Command Paper 6233, 1940) or because they were willing and able to undertake work of national importance, and could be set free without risk to security. It is open to those still in internment to apply for release with a view to assisting our war effort, and any such application will be considered on its merits.

Wing-Commander Hulbert

Can my right hon. Friend say whether it is the intention that the cases of all interned Italians will be reviewed automatically?

Mr. Morrison

They are reviewed from time to time in any case, and we take into account any changed circumstances which may be relevant to the situation.

Mr. Edmund Harvey

Can the Home Secretary say how many are still interned?

Mr. Morrison

Not without notice.

Captain Cunningham-Reid

As to the best of by knowledge there is no scientific apparatus to tell whether a Fascist is still a Fascist, would it not be far more prudent to leave things as they are?