HC Deb 22 March 1948 vol 448 cc2558-9
35. Mr. Blackburn

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any decision has yet been reached to discontinue the dismantling in the British zone of Germany of factories which can be used for peaceful production.

Mr. Mayhew

No, Sir.

Mr. Blackburn

Is my hon. Friend aware that public opinion in the country as a whole hopes that very soon a decision will be announced that the dismantling of these factories has definitely been ended?

Mr. Boothby

Can the hon. Gentleman say how long this suicidal nonsense is to continue? Is it going on at the present time, and how much longer is it to go on?

Mr. Molson

In view of the fact that the Government have said that Western Germany is expected to play its part in the Marshall Recovery Plan, is it really intended to continue dismantling Western Germany's industrial equipment?

Mr. Mayhew

I have nothing to add now to the policy statements that have been made on this question already by my right hon. Friend.