Married Women (Nationality)

Oral Answers to Questions — Scotland – in the House of Commons at on 25 April 1944.

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Photo of Commander William King-Hall Commander William King-Hall , Ormskirk

asked the Prime Minister whether he will take steps to ensure that the disabilities under which British married women suffer under the British Nationality and Status of Aliens Acts will be given consideration at the forthcoming conference of Dominion Premiers.

Mr. Graham White:

asked the Prime Minister if it is his intention to ascertain the views of the Prime Ministers of the Dominions on the subject of the nationality of married women during the forthcoming Dominions Conference.

Photo of Mr Clement Attlee Mr Clement Attlee , Stepney Limehouse

The forthcoming meeting is a personal meeting of Prime Ministers for discussion of broad issues of policy arising out of the war. I do not think that the question which my hon. Friends have in mind could appropriately be discussed.

Photo of Mr Frederick Pethick-Lawrence Mr Frederick Pethick-Lawrence , Edinburgh East

The Deputy Prime Minister will realise that this is a question of practical significance, which cannot be left indefinitely in cold storage. Can he give an assurance that, if this question will not be discussed at immediate meetings, the Prime Ministers will, at least, be asked to discuss the matter in their respective Dominions, with a view to a discussion at their next joint meeting and a decision being arrived at?

Photo of Mr Clement Attlee Mr Clement Attlee , Stepney Limehouse

That is rather another matter, and I would like to consider it.

Photo of Commander William King-Hall Commander William King-Hall , Ormskirk

In view of the fact that, a year ago, the Government said they were anxious to take further opportunities of consultation, does the right hon. Gentleman not agree that something might by now have been done; and can he say when they will do something about it? Is there any hope of anything happening?

Photo of Mr Clement Attlee Mr Clement Attlee , Stepney Limehouse

I cannot add anything to the statement I have already made.

Photo of Mr William Brown Mr William Brown , Rugby

Are you aware, Mr. Speaker, that the length of the supplementary question put just now from above the Gangway exceeded by a second and a half the length of the supplementary question of mine which you ruled out of Order because of its length?