HC Deb 18 July 1949 vol 467 cc46-7W
52. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in view of the fact that the restitution of property looted by the Nazis has been completed in the American Zone, what steps His Majesty's Government are taking to achieve a similar result in the British Zone.

Mr. McNeil

The term "restitution" is used to describe two processes: the restoration to governments of identifiable property located by the Germans from formerly occupied territories (external restitution), and the restoration to victims of Nazi persecution of identifiable property of which they were wrongfully deprived (internal restitution). Both types of restitution are the responsibility of the individual zone commander and different practices have prevailed in different Zones of Occupation. If the hon. Member's Question refers to external restitution, I understand that the United States authorities have, since 30th April, 1948, refused, with rare exceptions, to entertain new claims though they have continued to deal with claims already lodged. In the British Zone claimant governments have been allowed to submit claims up to 30th June this year. They now have until 31st March, 1950, to find any property claimed but so far unlocated. Thereafter the delivery of goods located will be completed but no new searches will be undertaken.

The position with regard to internal restitution is different. I understand that under the internal restitution law of the United States Zone it has not been possible to file further claims since 31st December, 1948. Physical restitution of property claimed is, I understand, still far from complete. Under the corresponding law in the British Zone, which was promulgated on 12th May, 1949, claims may be filed until the end of the present year. I regret that there has been delay in putting into operation the agencies which will deal with disputed claims, but the necessary Regulation will be published on Friday of this week and my noble Friend intends to see that the German authorities give prompt effect to its provisions. There is, of course, nothing to prevent parties to claims reaching amicable settlement out of court, and I understand that experience of the United States zonal law suggests that a great many cases will be dealt with in this way.