HC Deb 13 November 1945 vol 415 cc1901-2
32 . Mr. Stokes

asked the Minister of Labour whether any arrangements have yet been made whereby Polish officers and men of the Polish Mercantile Navy who do not wish to return to Poland may obtain employment in this country or sign on in ships flying the British Flag.

Mr. Isaacs

This matter has now been discussed in consultation with my right hon. Friends, the Home Secretary and the Minister of War Transport. The Home Secretary, I understand, proposes in suitable cases to vary the conditions on which the officers and men have been given leave to land, so as to permit them to take temporary shore employment of such kinds as may be approved by my Department. As regards the last part of the Question, I am informed by my right hon. Friend the Minister of War Transport that there are no vacancies in British ships to which Polish officers and men can be appointed.

Mr. Stokes

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that it is now some four months since this matter was raised and that very few of these people have had permission to land? A large number of them have landed, and will the right hon. Gentleman take steps now to deal with these people, who are without means of subsistence? A large number of them married English wives. They feel that they have been let down by the promises that were given.

Mr. Isaacs

The question of permission to land does not fall within the responsibility of my Department.

Mr. Stokes

I know, but will the right hon. Gentleman make arrangements for these people to take employment? Many people would give them employment if the right hon. Gentleman would give permission.

Mr. Isaacs

After they have landed, the question of employment will be dealt with by my Department.

Mr. Stokes

They have landed, for about four months some of them.