HC Deb 08 August 1940 vol 364 cc441-2W
Major Mills

asked the Minister of Labour whether special steps can be taken to give work and an opportunity of making a livelihood to British subjects who left the Channel Islands because of the impending invasion, as well as to friendly aliens?

Mr. Bevin

Persons evacuated from the Channel Islands who were unable to make their own arrangements were sent to Scotland, Lancashire, Cheshire and the West Riding. The Employment Exchanges immediately arranged to register those desiring employment with a view to making special efforts on their behalf. I am glad to say these have produced satisfactory results. A total of 1,794 registered in the North-Western and North-Eastern Divisions; of these 1,095 have been placed through the efforts of the Exchanges, 232 have found work on their own account and 388 are still registered. Similar figures are not yet available for Scotland. My hon. Friend will, of course, realise that amongst those still registered there are a number for whom it may be difficult to obtain employment for one reason or another, such as age or physical disability, but every effort will continue to be made on their behalf.

Mr. Ammon

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that, within 48 hours of the German occupation of the Channel Islands, all the tinned foods were requisitioned; is he also aware that there is no Red Cross organisation on the Islands; and has he any information as to the treatment and condition of the islanders?

Sir J. Anderson

I am unable to confirm the statement made in the first part of my hon. Friend's Question. As regards the second part there is in the Islands, a representative of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem with which the British Red Cross Society collaborates in war time. As soon as I have any information which can be made public about conditions in the Islands, I shall be glad to give it.

Mr. Ammon

asked the Home Secretary whether arrangements can be made for an exchange of German Nazis for British citizens visiting the Channel Islands who were unable to leave at the time of the German occupation?

Sir J. Anderson

I will certainly bear the suggestion in mind should circumstances permit of its adoption.