HC Deb 19 May 1958 vol 588 cc876-7
19. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what reasons prevent this country recognising the East German Government.

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

Her Majesty's Government do not consider that the so-called "German Democratic Republic" has the characteristics of an independent State. It has been created and artificially maintained by the Soviet Government. Her Majesty's Government continue, therefore, to hold the Soviet authorities responsible for the conduct of affairs in Eastern Germany.

Mr. Rankin

In the light of that answer, how can the Government recognise Western Germany which, in relation to the United States, differs little from Eastern Germany so far as support from Russia is concerned? Is not the hon. Gentleman aware that, by dollar aid, in general building and in housing and by various other means, the United States has subsidised Western Germany as much as Eastern Germany is being subsidised by Russia? If that argument is a valid one, surely it is not a very substantial one?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

Of course, I cannot accept the premise upon which the hon. Gentleman asks his question. It is not just a matter of subsidies; it is the actual conduct of affairs in each country. Furthermore, the Federal Government of Germany came into being as a result of free elections, and there have not been any free elections, or what the hon. Gentleman would call free elections, in Eastern Germany.