§ 41. Mr. John Patonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if His Majesty's Government has been consulted by the U.S. Government on the desirability of an early inter-Allied Japanese reparations conference on the basis of the recommendations made by Ambassador Pauley.
§ The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Ernest Bevin)The United States Government have invited all Gov- 360 ernments represented on the Far Eastern Commission to take part in early consultations on Japanese reparations. His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom have accepted this invitation, but it is not yet known when the discussions will begin or what form they will take. Mr. Edwin Pauley's recommendations to President Truman on Japanese reparations have not been specifically put forward as the basis for these discussions.
§ Mr. Walter FletcherWill the right hon. Gentleman remember that very large quantities of commodities and goods, removed from Malaya and Hong Kong, the subject of claims by British firms and individuals, were found in Japan after its capture and should be taken into consideration in this matter, as the claimants have received no indication that they are to have any reparations for these goods, some of which were removed from Japan to America?
§ Mr. PatonIn view of the importance of the discussions that will shortly be taking place, will my right hon. Friend make arrangements to see that effective reports are placed in the Library of this House, so that Members may keep themselves informed?
§ Mr. EdenCan the right hon. Gentleman tell us whether he knows yet where these discussions will take place, and who will represent us at them?