HC Deb 05 April 1950 vol 473 cc1173-4
20. Mr. Blackburn

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what information he has received as to the formation of para-military formations in the Soviet zone of Germany, in particular as to the Freie Deutsche Jugend; and what protest has been made to the Soviet authorities for their breaches of the demilitarisation clauses of the Potsdam Agreement and other agreements.

Mr. Younger

I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. and gallant Member for Perth and East Perthshire (Colonel Gomme-Duncan) on 13th March. The latest reports on the expansion, equipment and training of para military forces in the Soviet zone of Germany are being carefully considered by the authorities of the Western occupying Powers in Germany, and I am not therefore able to make a further statement at this stage.

Mr. Blackburn

In view of the very alarming statements made by Mr. McCloy, will my hon. Friend see that at the earliest possible moment we know what is the size of these para-military formations or their estimated size, according to our reports?

Mr. Younger

This matter is being very carefully investigated. I can assure my hon. Friend that no time will be wasted, but we do not want to make protests unless we feel we can make them in an effective manner.