1. Mr. CATHCART WASONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, if, in view of the sufferings of prisoners of war in Germany, he would ascertain if neutral Powers would be prepared to relieve the Germans of the cost of the maintenance of such prisoners and provide at the same time for their safe custody?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Lord Robert Cecil)This matter has been carefully considered, and I regret to say that the practical difficulties have so far been found insuperable. But the suggestion will not be lost sight of.
Mr. C. WASONMay I ask whether it is in the Noble Lord's knowledge that the Germans have already sent civilian prisoners over here to prevent them being starved there?
§ Lord R. CECILI am not sure that I quite follow the hon. Gentleman's question. Does the hon. Member mean to say that the Germans have sent some civillian prisoners back here?
§ Lord R. CECILNo, I do not think that is so. They have sent a certain number of civilian prisoners back in exchange for a certain number of civilian prisoners sent over there on the ground that they were incapable of military service.
§ Sir J. D. REESIs the process of exchange to be accelerated and continued?
§ Lord R. CECILIt is being continued periodically. I speak from recollection, but I think every two months a certain number have been sent back on each side.