HC Deb 10 May 1950 vol 475 cc383-4
61. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what was the nature of the recent protest to Dr. Adenauer about the singing of the third verse of the song "Deutschland uber Alles."

Mr. Ernest Davies

The Federal Chancellor has been informed by the Allied High Commission that they are disturbed by the controversy which has arisen over this matter, and that in their view a national song ought to be a source of inspiration to all the democratic elements in the country irrespective of party.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Is my hon. Friend aware that the third verse of "Deutschland uber Alles" is as innocuous as "Lead, Kindly Light" and less belligerent than "Rule Britannia"? Does he not think that this was rather ridiculous and childish?

Mr. Davies

No, Sir. Because of the past association of this national song in Germany it was considered that the controversy which it aroused was not to be endorsed.

Mr. Eden

Whatever we may feel about that song, surely the hon. Gentleman is not suggesting that the only alternative is the "Red Flag"?

Mr. James Hudson

As my hon. Friend is interested in the democratic morality of the German national anthem, will he consider the necessity of excluding from our own National Anthem certain objectionable phrases about politicians and knaves?

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