In regard to my first application: If the defendant is not fit to plead, I request that the proceedings against Hess be temporarily suspended.
In this connection may I refer to the opinions already submitted to the Tribunal.
After examining the questions placed before them by the Tribunal, the experts have come to the conclusion which is embodied in what I may call the main report signed by a mixed delegation consisting as far as I could determine of English, Soviet, and American experts, and dated 14 November 1945.
This report states, I quote: “The ability of the Defendant Hess is impaired”—that is—“the ability to defend himself, to face a witness, and to understand details of the evidence.” I have cited this part of the report because it is closest to the questions put to the experts by the Tribunal.
Another opinion says that “. . . even if Hess’ amnesia does not prevent the defendant from understanding what happens around him and to follow the proceedings in Court. . . .”
THE PRESIDENT [Interposing]: Would you speak a little more slowly? The interpreters are not able to interpret so fast.
Would you also refer us expressly to those parts of the medical reports to which you wish to draw our attention?
Do you understand what I said?
DR. VON ROHRSCHEIDT: Yes. I am sorry I cannot refer to the pages of the original or English text, as I only have the German translation; so I can only say that the first quotation. . . .
THE PRESIDENT [Interposing]: You can read the words in German, and they will be translated into English.