HC Deb 09 March 1959 vol 601 cc854-5
5. Mr. du Cann

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the membership of the mixed Committee to be set up under the Bonn Settlement Convention to consider Herr Krupp's application for an extension of time to fulfil his remaining obligations to sell his interests.

Mr. R. Allan

The membership of the Committee is one French, one American, one British, three German and a seventh member elected by the other six. The representatives have not yet been appointed.

Mr. du Cann

Can my hon. Friend give the House an assurance that everything possible is being done to bring this unsatisfactory matter to a conclusion, because the passage of time in no way lessens the offences of the Krupp's interests against the people of Europe? Furthermore, have not those same interests some influence on the present unemployment in this country? Is my hon. Friend aware of the recent statement by Herr Krupp on this subject?

Mr. Allan

We are, of course, doing our best to push this matter as fast as possible, in association with the other Governments concerned. Of course, Herr Krupp's own views are quite irrelevant, because under Allied High Commission law Her Majesty's Government deal with the Governments and not with Krupp.

Mr. J. Griffiths

Will the Minister bear in mind that in two world wars, in which successive generations in this country have paid very dearly, the Krupp's family name has occurred and the family has had a great deal of responsibility for those wars, and that we do not want to give Herr Krupp any favours?

Mr. Allan

Yes.

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