HC Deb 13 July 1948 vol 453 c982
4. Mr. Collins

asked the Secretary of State for War if he has approved the form used by officers of the Royal Engineers attached to the Second British Infantry Division in which they have to state whether men under their command, whom they are recommending for promotion, are married to women of alien origin, and if they have, or have not, applied to marry an ex-enemy national.

Mr. Shinwell

This was a form approved locally for use by one particular unit. The item referred to in the Question is being removed from the form.

Mr. Collins

While thanking my right hon. Friend for that answer, may I ask is he aware that in the case of which I have sent him particulars the fact that a British sergeant was married to an ex-enemy national was allowed to interfere with his promotion, and will he look into this case and any other cases?

Mr. Shinwell

I am informed that no man in this unit has been refused promotion on the ground of having married an alien.

Mr. Collins

Is my right hon. Friend aware that a copy of the document in question has been sent to him and this question as to whether or not the man is married to an enemy alien is included in the form? For what object is it included but to weigh against the man's recommendation for promotion?

Mr. Shinwell

There may have been some other reason.