§ 49. Mr. Stokesasked the Prime Minister whether the Morgenthau proposal to destroy Germany as an industrial state was considered at Quebec; whether it had the approval of His Majesty's Government; and for what reason Mr. Cordell Hull and Mr. Stimson did not take part in the discussions.
§ Mr. EdenMy right hon. Friend the Prime Minister is sure that it would be most undesirable to discuss the terms which are to be imposed upon Germany when she has been defeated, in a piecemeal fashion on Questions prompted by rumour and hearsay. Such matters are of the greatest consequence and must be the subject of agreement between the principal Powers.
§ Mr. StokesBut is my right hon. Friend aware that this report has been in responsible newspapers in this country and in America? Is he further aware that if the Morganthau plan is carried out, it will lead to the general lowering of the standard of living throughout Europe and, in the opinion of a great many people, another war will follow?
§ Mr. EdenI have seen reports in the Press but, on the whole, it is judicious in these matters perhaps not to found oneself exclusively on reports in the Press.
§ Mr. StokesMay I ask my right hon. Friend whether it is totally inaccurate that this matter was discussed at Quebec?
§ Mr. SilvermanWhile recognising the inadvisability of discussing the matter piecemeal, when will the right hon. Gentleman be in a position to give us a complete account of what proposals are to be made?
§ Mr. EdenClearly I could not be in a position to do that until consultation with our Allies has been made.
§ Mr. SilvermanWhen will that be?
§ Mr. McGovernIs it completely out of Order now for hon. Members of this House to ask about anything that has been discussed in any of these conferences?
§ Mr. EdenSubject to you, Mr Speaker, it is never out of Order for anybody to ask anything of that kind but it is still within the discretion of Ministers as to what they reply.