INDUSTRIAL MERGER

Otago Daily Times, Issue 27388, 13 May 1950, Page 7

INDUSTRIAL MERGER

Mr Attlee Welcomes French Move FULL STUDY ASSURED NZPA—Copyright LONDON, May 11. The French plan to merge French and German heavy industries, said the Prime Minister, Mr Attlee, in the House of Commons, must be regarded as a notable contribution towards a solution ,of a major European problem. The proposals had far-reaching implications for the future economic structure of the participating countries. This aspect would require very careful study by the British Government and other Governments concerned. The British Government would approach the problem in a sympathetic spirit. It desired to make it clear at the outset that it welcomed the French initiative to end the age-long feud with Germany, and so brirtg ’ peace and unity to Europe. Mr Attlee continued: “It is the declared policy of the Western Powers to promote the entry of Germany as a free member into the -comity of European nations. The French proposals are designed to facilitate the process, and must consequently be regarded as a notable contribution towards a solution of a major European problem.” Both the Opposition Leader, Mr Churchill, and the Liberal leader, Mr Clement Davies, asked for time for discussion on the French plan, preferably before the Whitsun recess. Mr Attlee agreed that the House should discuss the matter, but he did not tie himself to a definite date. Mr Anthony Eden suggested that the French statements had made it clear that the scheme included the participation of other Western European nations besides France and Germany. “So I understand,” Mr Attlee replied.