HC Deb 09 February 1949 vol 461 cc344-5
4. Professor Savory

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs on what grounds, other than a law of 1938, dating from the Nazi regime, the German Administrative Government of Schleswig-Holstein have denied the Kinderzuschlag or children's allowance to those parents of South Schleswig whose children attended Danish schools; and what steps he proposes to take to secure the rights of the Danish residents.

Mr. Bevin

This is not an act of Nazism. The legislation in question was originally passed by the Weimar Republic. It does not appear to be having any widespread effect though a few children may be affected. Since education is a subject the responsibility for which has been passed to the Germans we do not wish to interfere more than is necessary. It is, however, our policy to promote good relations between the Land Government and the Danish-minded minority. Therefore we have already spoken to the Minister President, who has instituted an inquiry.

Professor Savory

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his reply, may I ask him if he is aware that letters have been sent by the President in Kiel to parents, Danish-minded as he calls them—I prefer to call them Danish parents—saying that unless their children are withdrawn from these Danish schools the children's grant will be refused and that, according to the document I have before me, that action is based on a Nazi law of 1938? These people are being victimised because they are sending their children to a Danish school.

Mr. Bevin

I understand the Act referred to, which was passed in 1938, reenacted a law of 1928. The original law was passed by the Weimar Republic. I have taken this matter up with the Military Governor and officials there and I think that is the right way to get the whole of this problem settled.

9. Professor Savory

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the German administrative Government at Kiel proposes to close down the large municipal Danish schools in the towns of Flensborg and Schleswig as from 1st April this year, thereby affecting more than 8,000 children; that the Danish rector of the school in Schleswig Town, Mr. Svend Johannsen, received on 21st January an official notification of his dismissal; and what steps he proposes to take to prevent this unauthorised action of the German administrative authorities.

Mr. Bevin

I have called for a report on this matter and I will write to the hon. Member as soon as possible.

Professor Savory

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this most distinguished teacher, the rector of the school, is being dismissed simply because he is president of the South Schleswig Danish Association? He has, however, determined not to resign because, he says, that his dismissal is illegal. Will not the right hon. Gentleman support his appeal?

Mr. Bevin

Even a Foreign Secretary must wait for the report.