HC Deb 13 December 1944 vol 406 cc1207-8
1. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what plans are being made by U.N.R.R.A. for the repatriation from Germany of citizens of France, Belgium and other Allied Nations, who were deported and forced to work in German factories and mines.

The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Eden)

During the military period responsibility for the repatriation of nationals of the United Nations deported to Germany in the course of the war rests with the military authorities who, in consultation with the Allied Governments concerned, have been making detailed plans for this purpose. I understand that U.N.R.R.A. has been closely collaborating in the formulation and completion of these plans. U.N.R.R.A. is, moreover, in constant consultation with the Governments of our Allies on the whole problem of displaced persons, and the Governments of Belgium, Czechoslovakia, France, Greece, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland and Yugoslavia have formally requested the Administration to assist the repatriation of their nationals in Germany.

Mr. Driberg

Since, during the period of hostilities, it is obviously impossible for more than a small proportion of these millions to be repatriated, is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that plans for the further period are really adequate? Could he possibly circulate an outline of them in the OFFICIAL REPORT?

Mr. Eden

I will consider whether I can give more information, but agreement has been reached recently, on this complicated business, between S.H.A.E.F. and U.N.R.R.A., and it seems to be a good agreement.

Miss Rathbone

Is it not the case that the Government of the U.S.S.R. have not yet given any permission for delegations or supplies to U.N.R.R.A. to pass through Soviet territory? Cannot a decision on that point be expedited?

Mr. Eden

I cannot answer for the Soviet Government, as the hon. Lady will realise. She asks whether a decision cannot be expedited. It is for them to do that, but the hon. Lady is quite correct in saying that they have not made known their views.