HC Deb 29 January 1951 vol 483 cc577-8
72. Mr. David Renton

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will take steps to ensure that the Peace Treaty with Japan will include provision for the payment by the Japanese Government of compensation to members of the British Forces who suffered bodily or mental injury or illness as a result of cruelty inflicted upon them by the Japanese.

Mr. Ernest Davies

I would draw the attention of the hon. Member to the answer given to a Question asked by the hon. and gallant Member for Barkston Ash (Colonel Ropner) on 24th January.

Mr. Renton

While bearing in mind the answer given previously, will the hon. Gentleman explain how it is that the American Government have managed to obtain compensation from the Japanese for American soldiers who suffered, and will he tell us why it is that the British Government appear to be doing precisely nothing about it?

Mr. Davies

I am not aware that the American Government have received compensation in the way in which it is suggested in the Question that we should obtain compensation. This matter is being considered and we hope to make a further statement before very long.

Sir Ronald Ross

Will the Minister bear in mind the quite exceptional suffering of these people for their country, and will he do his utmost to see that they get compensation on the same lines as the United States have given to her Service personnel?