HC Deb 09 October 1945 vol 414 cc23-5
53. Captain Gammans

asked the Prime Minister how far he proposes to implement the pledge given by the Coalition Government to grant British citizenship to those members of the Polish armed Forces who are unwilling, or unable, to return to the new conditions in Poland.

The Prime Minister

It is clearly of primary importance, and in the best interests of the Polish nationals concerned, that as many as possible should be encouraged to return to Poland and should have time freely to decide to do so in the light of the information available as to the conditions which they are likely to find on their return; and it is on this aspect of the matter that the Governments concerned are concentrating. It is too soon to form any opinion as to the numbers of those who may eventually decide not to return to their homes, and the question of the steps to be taken to give effect to the hope expressed by my predecessor that it may be possible to offer British nationality to Polish troops who have served under our command is being borne in mind, but cannot be given further consideration until the nature and the size of the problem have been ascertained.

Captain Gammans

Will my right hon. Friend answer my Question and say whether or not his Government is bound by the pledge which was given by the previous Government, of which my right hon. Friend was a member of the War Cabinet? Does that pledge still hold or does it not?

The Prime Minister

This is a matter on which we obviously have to consult with the other Governments of the Commonwealth, but I may say that it was a hope rather than a pledge. It is in the spirit of that, however, that we intend to act. We need to do our utmost for our friends who have been fighting with us so well during the war. I think it would be premature to make a declaration at the moment on the exact steps proposed to be taken.

Captain Gammans

rose—

Miss Rathbone

Does my right hon. Friend consider that it is really necessary to delay before he says whether, after giving full time for consideration to Poles who put confidence in the previous Prime Minister's promise, if they decide finally not to return, the late Prime Minister's promise will be honoured or dishonoured?

The Prime Minister

I do not quite know what the hon. Lady means. I have stated that we are seeing how to implement the hope expressed by my predecessor.

Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

Surely the Dominions were consulted when that promise was given?