The Netherlands government is expected to muster a parliamentary majority behind its decision taken last week to free three Nazi war criminals serving life sentences, despite growing opposition from organizations of former anti-Nazi resistance fighters and from all sections of the Jewish community.
Premier Barend Biesheuvel and Justice Minister Andries Van Agt officially informed the parliament today of the Cabinet’s decision in favor of the “early release of the three war criminals still remaining in Dutch prisons.” The decision was taken on the recommendation of the Supreme Court.
The prisoners, who have served 25 years of their life terms are Franz Fischer, 70, Joseph Kotaella, 65 and Ferdinand Aus Den Fuenten, 73. In a telegram today, the three Jewish congregations in the Netherlands-Ashkenazic, Sephardic and Liberal-urged parliament to refuse to confirm the Cabinet’s decision. Most parties are divided on the Issue. The Roman Catholic Party is for releasing the prisoners while the Communist Party is unanimously opposed.
Van Agt has assured parliament that it will be consulted before their release is ordered. A debate is scheduled for Feb. 29 but most observers here believe the three ex-Nazis will be freed soon thereafter. Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Committee for Legal Affairs announced that it will hold open hearings Feb. 24 to allow spokesmen for various groups to state their opinions. Justice Minister Van Agt has been given special police protection against possible assaults by persons opposed to the release.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
