HC Deb 04 June 1947 vol 438 cc172-3
17. Mr. Stokes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many Germans were hanged or shot in the British zone of Germany by the Control Commission during the year ended 31st December, 1946; and how many have been hanged or shot during the first four months of this year.

Mr. Bevin

Sixty-eight Germans were hanged in 1946 under arrangements made by the Control Commission, and twenty-seven between 1st January and 29th May of this year. Executions by shooting are carried out by the military authorities.

Mr. Stokes

May I ask my right hon. Friend whether there is going to be any limit to the disgraceful scenes which were recently witnessed, when about 60 people were hanged after being kept in prison for more than a year after sentence?

Mr. Bevin

I think it is time things were brought to a head.

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