HC Deb 19 October 1939 vol 352 cc1083-4W
Mr. Creech Jones

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can state the position as regards the eligibility of Colonial subjects in this country to volunteer for service in the armed forces?

Mr. M. MacDonald

As was announced in the Press to-day, His Majesty's Government have decided that, during the present emergency, British subjects from the Colonies and British protected persons who are in this country, including those who are not of pure European descent, are to be on the same footing as British subjects from the United Kingdom as regards eligibility for voluntary enlistment in the armed Forces and for consideration for the grant of emergency commissions in those Forces. This will apply in the case of all three Services, the Royal Navy, the Army and the Royal Air Force.

Dr. Guest

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what opportunities are being given to citizens of Colonies and Protectorates, whether African or other, to enlist in His Majesty's Forces and to obtain commissions?

Mr. M. MacDonald

As regards men who are in this country, I would refer to the answer which is being given to-day to the question by the hon. Member for Shipley (Mr. Creech Jones). As regards men in the Colonies, opportunities have been made available in a number of Dependencies for enlistment in the local forces, which have been expanded since the outbreak of war. The possible further expansion of such forces is at present receiving consideration.