HC Deb 17 November 1948 vol 458 cc351-2
28. Mr. Piratin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many workers are estimated to have come out on strike on 11 th November in the Western Zones of Germany; what was the cause of the strike; and what steps are being taken to meet the demands of these workers.

Mr. Mayhew

This strike was general, except for those workers engaged in the maintenance of certain public services, including the railways, and in work for the Occupation Forces. It was called by the trade unions primarily in protest against the economic policy being pursued by the German Economic Administration at Frankfurt, which they blame for rising prices and the disparity between the cost of living and wages. It is for the German Economic Administration at Frankfurt to take the necessary steps. The British and American Military Government had already impressed on the German authorities the need for action in the economic field.

Mr. Piratin

But is it not the case that the British and American authorities have greater powers than the Under-Secretary intends to imply; and can they not really direct in some way that steps should be taken there so that the cost of living shall not increase as it has done?

Mr. Mayhew

It is true that we could have extensive powers in this matter; but at the same time it is also our policy to throw responsibility on to the Germans themselves.

Mr. Scollan

Did the Under-Secretary intend to imply in his original answer that the German authorities were not making the best of the assets placed at their disposal by the Allied Governments?

Mr. Mayhew

In the last part of my reply I said that we had impressed on the German authorities the need for action in the economic field. My right hon. Friend has also called for a report on this question, following upon the strike.

Mr. Scollan

In order to clarify the position, would the Under-Secretary clearly state to the House whether this is not an implication that the present German Government set up by the Allied Forces is not making the best use of what has been placed at their disposal by the Allied Governments?

Mr. Gallacher

Come on: answer.