HL Deb 30 July 1956 vol 199 cc413-4WA
LORD HANKEY

asked Her Majesty's Government for the following information about German nationals serving sentences as war criminals in Germany: (l) How many are held in Spandau; (2) How many in Werl on behalf of Great Britain; (3) How many on behalf of France at Wittlich and Neuwied; (4) How many on behalf of the United States of America, whether in prison or on parole; (5) What prospects are there in each case of further releases.

THE MARQUESS OF READING

There are at present five major war criminals held in Spandau. Ten war criminals convicted by British military courts are in British custody at Werl. I am informed that the French authorities hold eight at Wittlich and one at Neuwied. I am also informed that the United States authorities hold 32 in prison and that 190 are on parole. One prisoner held in Spandau is due for release on expiry of sentence in a few months' time. Any release of prisoners in Spandau prior to expiration of sentence is a matter for afifeement between the Four Powers. Any release of other war criminals is, in the first instance, a matter for recommendation to the Government concerned by the Mixed Board set up under Article 6 of Chapter 1 of the Bonn Convention on the Settlement of Matters Arising out of the War and the Occupation.