HC Deb 24 October 1946 vol 428 cc14-5W
90. Sir R. Glyn

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why a decision has been reached that Poles who joined the British Forces early in the war and served with distinction, in some cases obtaining awards and decorations, are to be treated, in regard to applications for naturalisation, on terms exactly similar to Poles who served in General Anders' army; and whether he will consider exempting Poles, who were pilots with the R.A.F. and served throughout the war, from being attested into the British Resettlement Corps for Poles (Air Ministry Branch) and that their service be thus recognised, especially those who have married British subjects and who have occupations in this country.

Mr. Oliver

As far as the first part of the Question is concerned, the hon. Baronet appears to have been misinformed. Poles who have served as members of His Majesty's Forces, and possess the statutory qualifications for naturalisation, are eligible for prior consideration on the ground of their military service in the same way as other aliens with similar service. The answer to the second part of the Question is in the negative. Enlistment in the Resettlement Corps is a necessary stage in the orderly transfer into civil life of members of the Polish Armed Forces, and carries with it material benefits. It is itself a recognition of the status of those who served under British command and the Government cannot undertake that similar assistance can be given in any other way.