HC Deb 19 June 1935 vol 303 cc339-40
11. Mr. ANEURIN BEVAN

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the proposal to send a delegation of ex-service men to Germany; whether the proposal meets with the approval of His Majesty's Government; and whether the proposal was made with the knowledge and consent of the Government?

Sir S. HOARE

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second and third parts, His Majesty's Government were and are aware that it is the policy of the British Legion to establish friendly relations with corresponding organisations in all countries. They regard the matter as one entirely for the ex-servicemen's organisations.

Mr. BEVAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that exception is not taken to the sending of the delegation, but to the manner of doing so, and to the place and authority which give the proposal a diplomatic significance which it ought not to possess; and will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that when the delegation visits Germany it will visit the ex-servicemen in concentration camps and prisons?

Sir S. HOARE

I can only repeat that this is essentially a matter for the ex-servicemen's organisations and is not one in which the Foreign Office, as such, can intervene at all.

Mr. BEVAN

Does the right hon. Gentleman approve or disapprove of a proposal of this sort being made by a person occupying the position of the Prince of Wales?

Sir S. HOARE

I can neither approve nor disapprove. It is not a matter within the competence of my office.

Mr. MORGAN JONES

Can we take it that the visit has no diplomatic significance?

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