Of course Rudolf Hess should be released. But Soviet opposition ensures that he will not be. One reason why the Russians ruthlessly prolong an inhuman situation may be their desire to keep a legitimate foothold in West Berlin through their shared control of the Spandau prison. It also has to be remembered, however, that Hess is a special enemy for the Russians, and not without cause.
He was the leading anti-Communist among the Nazi chieftains: the aim of his “peace flight” to Britain during the war was to persuade the British to join with Hitler in an attack on the Soviet Union.
Since Hitler’s invasion cost some 20 million Russian dead, the implacable Russian punishment of Hess is understandable, if by no means excusable. But to show mercy, at least to the extent of easing the prison conditions of a very old and ill man – he could be kept where he is now, in the British military hospital – would better become a great nation.
Key quote
“Let them come clean, for if they evade this challenge they will stand convicted of hypocrisy. We shall be waiting for their answer.”
Prime minister Harold Wilson challenges the Conservatives about their policies on public expenditure
Talking point
A suggestion that the National Health Service should be given overall responsibility for family planning is published today in a Conservative Society pamphlet. The pamphlet also advocates: male sterilisation under the health service; immigration control; unrestricted birth control advice to all who ask for it; and the formation of a population research unit directly responsible to the prime minister. Observer news story
