§ 5. Mr. R. McNEILLasked the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs whether British officer prisoners of war in Germany are prohibited from buying wines or spirits, although such purchases are 2039 permitted to be made by French and Russian prisoners; whether the friends of British prisoners are prohibited from sending wines or spirits in parcels to German camps; and, if so, for what reason; and whether he will advise the authorities in this country responsible for the care of German prisoners of war to place them on the same footing as British prisoners of war in Germany, as regards the purchase or supply of alcoholic beverages?
§ Lord R. CECILWe have no knowledge of any discrimination such as is suggested in the first part of the question. The supply of alcoholic liquor to officer prisoners of war, whether in Germany or in this country, from outside the internment camps is prohibited for reasons which will doubtless suggest themselves to the hon. Member. If, as we understand to be the case, officer prisoners in Germany are allowed to purchase light wines at the canteens, the Regulations in force in the two countries with regard to the purchase and supply of alcoholic beverages by and to officer prisoners are substantially the same. The last part of the question does not, therefore, arise.
§ Mr. McNEILLWill my Noble Friend ascertain whether or not the information in question is or is not correct, and, if it is, will he take steps accordingly?
§ Lord R. CECILOur information is that there is no distinction at all between the Regulations in this matter which are in force in Germany and in England.