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Troops, Germany (Maintenance Orders)

Volume 524: debated on Monday 1 March 1954

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25.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what representations have been made to Her Majesty's Government by the German Government in respect of the financial obligations of British Service men to assist in the maintenance of German illegitimate or legitimate children of whom they are fathers.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that we are carrying on negotiations with the American Government regarding rather similar circumstances in this country and, in view of that, could he not inquire of the German Government whether they have any representations to make on this matter to Her Majesty's Government?

I have no doubt that if the German Government feel it necessary to make representations on this matter, they will do so, but they have not done so.

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that some months ago this matter was being openly espoused in the German Press and elsewhere, and even in this House, and can he really say that no contact has been made with the German Government on this matter?

I am not responsible for what comments are made in the German Press. The hon. Gentleman asked me what representations had been received; no representations have been received.