§ 53. Mr. Ian Winterbottomasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what progress has been made in the British zone of Germany towards the passing of legislation the purpose of which is to provide compensation for the victims of the National Socialist regime.
§ Mr. Ernest DaviesDiscussions are at present taking place, both with the Federal Government and in the Inter-Governmental Study Group on Germany, on how to secure uniform legislation throughout the Federal Republic.
§ Mr. WinterbottomWill my hon. Friend bear in mind that the Restitution Bill before the North Rhine-Westphalen Parliament at the moment deals almost exclusively with people resident within that land, and will he use his influence to ensure that claims of people who are now British nationals will receive consideration?
§ Mr. DaviesYes, Sir. I will draw my right hon. Friend's attention to that.
§ Mr. JannerMay I ask my hon. Friend whether it is proposed to go beyond the limits at present provided by the Restitution Law of 1859 and whether, in the event of an award being given to a victim of Nazi aggression, provision will be made for him to obtain payment outside Germany?
§ Mr. DaviesI cannot answer detailed questions about this matter. At the present stage we are endeavouring to secure uniform legislation. When we have done so, the detailed matters can be considered.