§ Sir E. NICHOLLasked the Home Secretary whether he has given permission to Mr. Ernest Heinrich Kotz to alter his surname to Coats and, if so, on what grounds; whether his application to change his name was supported by any persons and, if so, by whom; and if any communications were received opposing the application?
§ Major BAIRDYes, Sir. The Home Secretary has granted permission to Mr. Kotz to continue to use the name Coats, which he adopted in 1914. There appeared to him to be a proper case for exemption in accordance with the general rules followed by him and his predecessor in the administration of Defence of the Realm Regulation 14H. Representations were received both for and against his application—all of which were carefully considered—but on grounds of general policy which are well recognised, my right hon. Friend is not prepared to make an exception to the general practice of not disclosing the names of his correspondents in this and similar matters.