HC Deb 03 February 1947 vol 432 cc1374-5
21. Major Bramall

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what organisation is going to take over from U.N.R.R.A. the responsibility for the Jewish displaced persons in camps in Italy; and what arrangements are to be made for the mental and moral welfare of these people.

Mr. Mayhew

It is hoped that the proposed International Refugee Organisation will eventually take over responsibility for those refugees and displaced persons who have so far been cared for by U.N.R.R.A. In that case the International Refugee Organisation will continue U.N.R.R.A.'s work as it affects the mental and moral welfare of these people.

Major Bramall

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind the necessity for this new organisation doing more than U.N.R.R.A. did in regard to the mental and moral welfare of these people? U.N.R.R.A. confined itself to physical welfare. Will the Government impress on the British representative on this organisation the need for greater care to be given on the mental side?

Mr. Mayhew

I appreciate my hon. and gallant Friend's point of view. No doubt that point will be borne in mind when the Preparatory Commission of the I.R.O. meets next week at Geneva.

Mr. Warbey

Can the hon. Gentleman say what hope there is of the budgetary requirements of the I.R.O. being satisfied?

Mr. Mayhew

That, again, will be discussed next week at the meeting of the Preparatory Commission.

Mr. Osborne

Can the Under-Secretary assure us that the whole cost will not be borne by the British and American taxpayers?

Mr. Mayhew

Yes, Sir. This is an international organisation to which many nations contribute.

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