§ LORD RUSSELL OF LIVERPOOLasked His Majesty's Government, whether there is any truth in the persistent Press reports that the Superintendent of Police who is at present in the British Zone of Germany conducting important criminal investigations has been obstructed by the British Zonal Authorities; and that in one case the authorities refused to take action upon ample evidence. If the answer to the first part of the question be in the affirmative, will His Majesty's Government endeavour to ensure that, in future, when there is satisfactory evidence, disciplinary action shall be taken no matter what the status of the offender.
THE CHANCELLOR OF THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER (LORD PAKENHAM)Any report that this officer's investigations have been obstructed by the authorities in the British Zone is entirely unfounded. He has himself denied the truth of any such allegation, and has, moreover, stated that the authorities have given him every assistance and encouragement. He has no complaint that any case prepared by him has not been proceeded with because of the status of tie offender. If, however, the noble Lord will give me particulars of the case he has in mind, I will make further inquiries.
House adjourned at quarter-past six o'clock.