HC Deb 03 May 1944 vol 399 c1328W
Sir P. Hannon

asked the Minister of Labour if he will indicate the opportunities afforded to Polish women refugees in this country to contribute to the United Nations war effort; and in what organisations and on what particular activities are these women engaged.

Mr. McCorquodale

Polish women between the ages of 16 and 50 are subject to registration with the Ministry of Labour and National Service under the International Labour Force (Registration of Polish Nationals) Order, 1941, and so far as is practicable are dealt with similarly to British women of the same age and in similar domestic circumstances. A considerable number have enlisted in the Auxiliary Services or are employed in Polish Government Departments or in hospital or Red Cross services, and many are also employed in industries of importance to the war effort. In common with women of other Allied Nations residing in this country the women of Poland are playing an essential part in the total Allied war effort and I am glad to have this opportunity of paying tribute to their services.