HC Deb 10 June 1941 vol 372 cc29-30
45. Mr. Silverman

asked the Prime Minister whether he can now state the results of the investigation into the purpose of the arrival in this country of Rudolf Hess; whether Hess brought with him any proposals indicating how the problems of Europe might, in his view, be solved; whether any reply to such proposals has been made or is contemplated; whether such proposals or reply will be published; and whether he will indicate the general lines of the Government's own proposals for the settlement of Europe after the war, so as to repair its ravages and prevent its recurrence?

47. Mr. Stokes

asked the Prime Minister whether the President of the United States of America, either through his Ambassador in London or the British Ambassador at Washington, has been informed by His Majesty's Government of the object which Herr Hess assigned for his flight by air to this country; and whether' Herr Hess conveyed, or himself suggested, any terms of peace, or made any proposal for negotiations with a view to terminating hostilities?

The Prime Minister (Mr. Churchill)

I have no statement to make about this person at the present time: but His Majesty's Government have, of course, kept the United States Government informed on the subject of his flight to this country.

Mr. Silverman

Is the House to infer that this prominent Nazi leader came to this country without any serious purpose whatever; and if he had such a purpose, why are the people of this country not entitled to know what it was?

The Prime Minister

I have nothing to add to the answer I have given.

Mr. Shinwell

When does my right hon. Friend hope to make a statement?

The Prime Minister

I do not quite know. If at any time the Government think a statement is necessary, or that it would be advantageous, it will be made.

Lieut.-Colonel Acland-Troyte

Is not too much fuss being made about this wretched fellow? Should he not be left alone?

Mr. Silverman

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment at the first opportunity.