§ 25. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for War how many German women have married British soldiers in Germany; how many have been permitted to come to Britain for this purpose; and whether any steps have yet been taken towards assisting German women who have children by British soldiers to secure consideration of their claims on such men.
§ The Secretary of State for War (Mr. Shinwell)The total number of marriages of British Army personnel to German women registered by Headquarters, B.A.O.R., up to the end of February was approximately 3,400. I understand that the total number of German women admitted to this country for the purpose of marriage to British subjects to the end of March was 4,694, but I cannot say how many of the husbands are in the British Army. As regards the last part of the Question, the position remains as stated in replies given by my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and myself to previous Questions by my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. SorensenIs my right hon. Friend aware of the disparity between these girls who have had children by British soldiers and subsequently married them, and others who were promised marriage but were never married and have been left to bear their burdens alone? Can he say something to expand the promise made yesterday which gave some hope that this situation would be alleviated?
§ Mr. ShinwellAs I have indicated, the matter is under consideration.