§ 12. Sir R. Glynasked the Secretary of State for War what was the total cost from first to last of administering the Polish Resettlement Corps; what were the numbers of the corps in June, 1946, 1947 and 1948, respectively; and when will the affairs of this formation be finally settled.
§ Mr. ShinwellIt is estimated that cash expenditure on the Polish Resettlement Corps since its inception, and including expenditure which it is expected to incur in the present and the next financial 186 years, will amount to a total of the order of £27,000,000. Enlistment into the corps did not start until September, 1946. The approximate strength on 1st June, 1947, was 71,000, and on 1st June, 1948, 32,000. These figures do not include the Royal Air Force section of the Polish Resettlement Corps. It is not possible to say exactly when the corps will be finally wound up, as this will depend on the rate of resettlement, but I hope it will be not later than early 1950.
§ Sir R. GlynWill the right hon. Gentleman consider issuing a statement, in the form of a White Paper or in some form, to show what is the position of the Poles, and how far the War Office are responsible for the expenditure, in view of the fact that many of them do not intend to work and are becoming an increasing burden on the taxpayers of this country?
§ Mr. ShinwellWe are liquidating this liability very rapidly, and, as I say, I think we shall fully liquidate it early in the year 1950.
§ Mr. H. HyndAs it was stated in June last that the corps were being liquidated at the rate of between 500 and 600 weekly, can my right hon. Friend say whether the rate is being maintained? What is the strength of the corps now?
§ Mr. ShinwellI have given the strength of the corps at 1st June, 1948–32,000. We are liquidating this liability very speedily. I cannot give the exact weekly rate.
Mr. Wilson HarrisHas the right hon. Gentleman power to deal effectively with men who decline to work?
§ Mr. ShinwellOh, yes, and we use our powers very effectively.