§ 48. Professor Savoryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs in view of the negotiations at present in progress between the French and German Governments with regard to the future status of the Saar territory, whether he is in a position to state the policy of the British Government in this matter.
§ Mr. YoungerHis Majesty's Government are unaware of any current negotiations regarding the future status of the Saar territory. As stated on previous occasions, His Majesty's Government accept, pending a final peace settlement with Germany, the provisional political separation of the Saar from Germany and its economic integration with France.
§ Professor SavoryDoes the hon. Gentleman not realise with what impatience a decision of the Government is awaited by both the French and the Germans? Considering that this question was raised by the French five years ago, have the Government not had time to make up their minds?
§ Mr. YoungerI think that the Government position in this matter has been made clear on a number of occasions in the House. The last occasion, I think, was only a few months ago. We consider that this cannot be finally determined until there is a treaty.