HC Deb 24 January 1949 vol 460 cc552-3
33. Mr. Piratin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many refugee children, separated from their parents, or orphans, are in the British zones of Germany and Austria; and what steps have been taken to repatriate them, including the submitting of complete lists to all the possible countries of which the children may be nationals.

Mr. Mayhew

There are 545 such children registered in the British zone of Germany and approximately 480 in the British zone of Austria. Every effort is being made to establish their nationality and trace their parents. Experience suggests that no useful purpose would be served by circulating lists of names to other Governments. It would be more useful if the Governments concerned would agree to co-operate with the International Refugee Organisation Child Search Teams.

Mr. Piratin

Is it not the case that the Soviet Government are co-operating, as the Minister said in a reply given last November?

Mr. Mayhew

No, Sir, it would be possible to get much more effective cooperation from the Soviet Government.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Is it not a fact that the Soviet Government might also co-operate in giving back the children they have stolen from Greek families?