HC Deb 28 July 1942 vol 382 c351W
Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the present position with regard to military service by British subjects in the United States of America; and to what extent they have been called up into the American Army?

Mr. Law

Under United States selective service legislation, British subjects in the United States between the ages of 18 and 65 have been required to register, and those between the ages of 20 and 45 are liable for service with the United States Forces. The United States authorities have, however, agreed that before they are inducted into the United States Forces, British subjects who have not declared their intention of becoming United States citizens will be given an opportunity of joining the British Forces if they are found to be suitable for them. This procedure will be put into force early in August. Meanwhile, I understand that no British subjects have so far been inducted into the United States Forces. Any who have voluntarily joined the United States Forces will be given an opportunity of transferring to the British Forces if they are acceptable.