HC Deb 12 February 1951 vol 484 cc27-8
48. Commander Noble

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has taken steps to ensure that the peace treaty with Japan will include provision for a settlement of civilian compensation claims by British nationals who suffered for some years in the Philippines and elsewhere.

Mr. Ernest Davies

I would draw the attention of the hon. and gallant Member to the answer given to the hon. and gallant Member for Barkston Ash (Colonel Ropner) on 24th January, to which I have nothing to add.

Commander Noble

Will the Under-Secretary bear in mind that if it is not possible to get compensation for these people by the Philippines Rehabilitation Act, this is really their last opportunity?

Mr. John Tilney

Will the hon. Gentleman also bear in mind the many claims of the former Far East prisoners of war and the dependants of those who died in Japanese prison camps?

Mr. Davies

All those matters are being taken into account in considering this question.

Mr. Paton

Does my hon. Friend's reply mean that conversations on these and other matters are taking place with regard to the Japanese peace treaty?

Mr. Davies

What my reply means in that respect is that we have made certain proposals in this regard, about which we are at present in consultation with the Commonwealth. As soon as they are completed I hope to make a statement.