HC Deb 31 July 1997 vol 299 c641W
Mr. Cohen

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what steps her Department has taken to investigate claims that the British Government failed to return confiscated funds deposited by victims of the holocaust in British banks; and if she will make a statement. [11284]

Mr. Nigel Griffiths

The Government take very seriously the concerns expressed in the Israeli Knesset and in the media about the confiscation of property from nationals and residents of enemy countries during the second world war. The DTI is working closely with the FCO to identify the relevant papers—many of which are already at the Public Record Office. The results of that work will be made public when it is completed. Both Departments are also co-operating with the Holocaust Educational Trust and other interested individuals and organisations.