HC Deb 11 February 1942 vol 377 cc1538-9W
Sir Smedley Crooke

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the fact that Russia is now one of our Allies, he will consider the advisability of urging Russians loyal to this country, who have been living here many years, to join the air-raid precautions or other defence services?

Mr. Mabane

I presume my hon. Friend is referring to White Russians. These are not Soviet citizens and indeed are Stateless. On the general question of the acceptance of offers of service in Civil Defence by alien residents in this country, my right hon. Friend is anxious that, subject to the proper requirements of national security and with due regard to local circumstances, full advantage should be taken of their services. Instructions to this effect have recently been issued to local authorities.

Sir Smedley Crooke

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the Government's declaration that Russia is now one of our Allies, he will consider the advisability of revising the regulations covering the instructions to the police as to the treatment of Russians who have been living in this country for many years who have shown their loyalty to this country, and who now resent being treated as enemy aliens?

Mr. Peake

I presume my hon. Friend is referring to persons of Russian origin who are not Soviet citizens and have no other nationality. He is under a misapprehension in thinking that they are treated as enemy aliens. The Regulations to which they are subject are those which apply to all persons who are not British subjects and do not include the special restrictions which apply to aliens of enemy nationality.