§ 21. Mr. Skeffington-Lodgeasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, how many German ex-prisoners of war have applied on compassionate grounds to stay in this country after the end of the year; how many applications were granted; and what grounds were recognised as qualifying apart from marriages to British women.
§ Mr. EdeNo separate record has been kept of applications by former German prisoners of war to stay in this country on compassionate grounds. Most of the applications granted have been from former prisoners who have married British women, but a few have been granted in cases where the applicant was supporting a woman and child in this country, though marriage was out of the question; where the applicant's only relative was living here; or where the applicant proposed to join relatives in another country.
§ Mr. Skeffington-LodgeIs it still possible for applications to be considered? If so, will my right hon. Friend favour those from German ex-prisoners who have no home, are Stateless, and who would like to stay here and to work in this country?
§ Mr. EdeNo, Sir. I gave an answer—I think a week, or, possibly, a fortnight ago—in which I said that these people were due to be repatriated upon 13th December, and urged that they should apply as soon as possible. I think that answer still holds good. I would point out that it is getting very close to the time now.