HC Deb 11 May 1949 vol 464 cc1819-20
3. Mr. Vane

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement on the progress in Germany of the series of trials known as "operation Old Lace."

Mr. Bevin

The trials of members of the organisations declared criminal by the International Military Tribunal, which were begun in June, 1947, are now nearing completion. By the end of last year over 20,000 persons had been tried, of whom, 75 per cent. were convicted. At 6th April, which is the latest date for which figures were available, 168 cases had still to be tried, and 203 cases were under investigation prior to being brought to trial.

Mr. Vane

Does the reply of the right hon. Gentleman mean that there are now only 168 persons still in custody awaiting trial?

Mr. Bevin

Oh, no. There are 168, and 203 whose cases are under investigation.