HC Deb 22 November 1945 vol 416 cc573-4
17. Mr. Stokes

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what arrangements have now been made to enable Polish officers and men of the Polish Mercantile Navy who do not wish to return to Poland or serve under the existing Polish Government to take up residence and seek employment in this country.

Mr.Ede

I have in suitable cases authorised a variation of the conditions on which these officers and men had been given leave to land, so as to permit them to take temporary shore employment of such kinds as may be approved by the Ministry of Labour. As at present advised, I am not prepared to allow them to settle permanently on shore and they will be expected in due course to resume the sea employment as opportunity offers.

Mr. Stokes

In view of the fact that there are several hundreds of these men involved, can my right hon. Friend give us any idea of the numbers who have been afforded this facility?

Mr. Ede

If my hon. Friend will put down the question I will endeavour to give him the information.

Vice-Admiral Taylor

Will these concessions apply to the officers and men of the Polish Forces and civilians in this country?

Mr. Ede

Before I can broaden the statement which I have made here, I would like to see the question on the Paper.