HC Deb 11 June 1947 vol 438 c1044
24. Air-Commodore Harvey

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if any parts of the British zone in Germany are yet being taken over by the Dutch Government for administration.

Mr. Bevin

No, Sir.

Air-Commodore Harvey

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that the Dutch, who made a great contribution in the war, could improve the economic situation in Germany by taking over part of the British zone, and, at the same time, save the British taxpayer money?

Mr. Bevin

The Dutch have provided a certain number of troops, but as for taking over a zone—

Air-Commodore Harvey

P[...] of it.

Mr. Bevin

Do let me answer the question. Taking over a zone has other implications. They are a part of the Allied British occupation at the present moment, which is, I think, the correct method to adopt.