HC Deb 19 June 1947 vol 438 cc2202-3
26. Mr. Symonds

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, on humanitarian grounds, he will consider introducing legislation to amend the Adoption Acts to enable British subjects to adopt war orphans alien origin.

Mr. Ede

As indicated in the reply I gave on 28th February, 1946, to my hon. Friend the Member for South Croydon (Mr. Rees-Williams) this question has been noted for consideration when there is an opportunity for amending legislation, but I am not in a position to hold out hope of legislation in the near future.

Mr. Symonds

In the meantime, what is the state of such children in this country? Will they remain stateless and parentless indefinitely?

Mr. Ede

No, Sir. Their nationality will depend on the nationality of their parents in the normal case.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Could the same end not be achieved without legislation by allowing such children to be naturalised and get the British nationality of their intended adopted parents?

Mr. Ede

No, Sir. I am quite willing to consider that matter, but the naturalisation of infants is a matter of some complication.