§ 22. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Labour whether sympathetic consideration will now be given to applications to work in this country by the foreign fiancés of British women, including those who are unmarried mothers, provided the applicants can satisfy his Department respecting their ability to work and their non-Nazi outlook.
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsSuch applications would be considered subject to the usual rules as regards the employment of foreigners in this country. If my hon. Friend has in mind more particularly cases of German ex-prisoners of war, the position is that it is not open to those who have been repatriated to return for employment in this country. If, however, on compassionate grounds a German is allowed by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary to come to this country for a visit, I should be prepared to consider an application to work in agriculture, if, during the period of his visit, the German is able to secure an offer of employment in that industry.
§ Mr. SorensenCan my right hon. Friend say how much time will be given to a visiting ex-prisoner of war to find a job? Is it only as an agricultural labourer that such a man will be allowed to work?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsThe man's entry into this country is determined by the Home Office, and if they allow him to 962 come in we shall let him stay and work if he gets employment in agriculture, or mining or any other industry with which agreement may be reached about the employment of such people.
§ Mr. SorensenWill Germans or Austrians who have not been prisoners of war be able to come to this country to marry their British fiancees?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsMy hon. Friend should put that question to the Home Office.
§ Mr. Joynson-HicksWill ex-prisoners of war or ex-enemy aliens become subject to the Control of Engagement Order?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsYes, Sir.