HC Deb 27 June 1944 vol 401 cc586-7
9 and 10. Mr. Kendall

asked the Secretary of State for War (1) why instructions have been sent to British officers in charge of Italian labour battalions that British ranks should salute when in camp, as a matter of courtesy, the Italian officers now posted to these battalions; and will he consider countermanding these instructions in view of the resentment felt among the British ranks affected;

(2) why a recommendation has been sent to British officers in charge of Italian labour battalions that the British officers' mess should be made available to Italian officers; is he aware that great resentment is felt among the British officers who are forced to comply with this request; and will he consider countermanding this recommendation.

Sir J. Grigg

These are composite units consisting of Italians who have volunteered to co-operate in the Allied war effort and some British officers and noncommissioned officers. The British and Italians work together and in these circumstances the action taken seems to me unobjectionable. I have not heard that it has caused any resentment.

Mr. Kendall

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, in the event of British officers and other ranks not complying with these orders, they will be subject to reduction in the ranks and subsequent loss of pay and allowances?

Sir J. Grigg

I cannot answer hypothetical questions.