HC Deb 22 April 1943 vol 388 c1837W
Captain Nicholson

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has now been able to issue instructions modifying the method of enlistment of nationals of those countries with which we are at war?

Sir J. Grigg

As the House is aware, nationals of countries with which we are at war have hitherto been required to enlist in the Pioneer Corps in the first place. As I informed the hon. Member for Rugby (Mr. W. Brown) on 2nd March facilities for transfer to other arms of the Service have recently been extended, and I am now able to announce a further step in this direction. As from 1st May aliens of enemy origin may be considered for direct enlistment into any corps other than the Royal Corps of Signals. I should add that in order that aliens who have not previously enlisted in the Pioneer Corps may not be at an advantage over those who are already serving, candidates for direct enlistment into arms other than the Pioneer Corps will be required to show good cause for not having enlisted before.