§ 43. Mr. Skeffington-Lodgeasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of their acquittal at Nuremberg, he will take steps to ensure that Schacht, Papen and Fritsche are given safe conduct to, and sanctuary in, a place where their victimisation by their own fellow-countrymen or others will be impossible.
§ Mr. BevinThese three men are understood to be at present in the American zone of Germany, and His Majesty's Government have therefore no responsibility for their disposal.
§ Mr. Skeffington-LodgeYes, but would not the Minister use his very vital influence to secure that these men are not chased up on new charges until passions have died down, this being both vindictive and, in my judgment, indecent?
§ Mr. McKinlayWould the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that he will place nothing in the way of the persons mentioned joining their fellow countrymen in hell?
§ Mr. StokesIs it not in fact the responsibility of the four Powers to protect people whom they have already tried and acquitted, and that they cannot shed their responsibility?
§ Mr. BevinI do not think there is any accusation that the American Government, who are responsible for the zone in which they are residing, are doing anything else.