France Admits Guilt in WWII Deportations

A top judicial authority in France ruled today that the nation was guilty of deporting Jews in the Second World War, the Times of London reports. The landmark decision, confirming France's legal responsibility for the first time, left victims' families frustrated by refusing to give compensation. “The different measures taken since the end of the Second World War have made reparation as much as possible,” it said.

The Council of State made the ruling in the case of Madeleine Hoffman-Glemane, 75, whose mother was killed at Auschwitz. She was suing France for about $360,000; hundreds of others are awaiting their turn behind her. “We are simply asking to be treated like any other citizen who is a victim of asbestos poisoning or a road accident," one lawyer said. “When you suffer damage, you should be able to seek recourse."
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