§ 52. Mr. Skinnardasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster to whom inquiries by refugees as to their properties, factories and machinery in Germany or Austria should be addressed; and what steps may such refugees take to obtain the removal of valuable machinery to this country.
§ Mr. J. HyndThe nature and scope of the restitution and compensation which it may be possible to afford, from German and Austrian resources, to people in Germany and Austria, as well as refugees from those countries, who were dispossessed by the Nazis, is a matter for agreement between the occupying Powers. We shall shortly be putting proposals to our Allies and an announcement will be made if and when quadripartite agreement is reached. Meanwhile no good purpose would be served by addressing inquiries to London departments about individual cases.
§ Mr. P. FreemanMight I ask if the result will be that some facilities will be granted to enable these refugees to go and inspect them or make some inquiries in the meantime?
§ Mr. HyndAt the moment there are no such facilities. The number of people who are anxious to visit Germany, British, United Nations and ex-enemy nationals, for this purpose would tax the very small resources of the Control Commission beyond their present capacity.