HC Deb 24 July 1952 vol 504 cc750-1
44. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many German ex-prisoners of war, now settled permanently in this country, have intimated that they wish to apply for naturalisation; how soon applications from these men will be considered; and how many have been granted naturalisation already for special reasons.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

Since July, 1951, when the first enemy prisoners-of-war to be given civilian status had completed five years' residence here as civilians, 78 have applied for naturalisation and 286 have made inquiries about applying. I cannot yet say when it will be possible to consider applications from former prisoners-of-war, but none will be entertained before the beginning of 1954, by which time those Poles who actively served the Allied cause in the war will have had full opportunity of applying. Two former German prisoners-of-war have been granted certificates of naturalisation for special reasons.

Mr. Driberg

Would the right hon. and learned Gentleman say what were those special reasons?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

Because of their records in Crown service.