HC Deb 02 March 1916 vol 80 cc1169-71
6. Mr. RUPERT GWYNNE

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is in a position to make any statement regarding the treatment of British prisoners in Bulgaria; and if he has received any report from the American Ambassador regarding their condition?

Sir E. GREY

The United States Chargé d'Affaires informed the United States Ambassador here by telegram, on the 17th ultimo, that all the British prisoners of war in Bulgaria were to be transferred to Philippopolis, that an American physician had been placed in attendance, and that the present arrangement was very satisfactory. The Chargé d'Affaires has also reported that there are sixty or seventy British prisoners of war in different hospitals in Sofia, and that they are well treated.

Mr. GWYNNE

Will the right hon. Gentleman be receiving further reports?

Sir E. GREY

Yes, we are constantly receiving them. We are getting them as frequently as we can, and by all the means in our power obtaining the fullest information we can.

7. Mr. GWYNNE

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been called to accounts which have recently appeared regarding the treatment of British prisoners at Schneidemuhl; whether the American Ambassador has been asked to inquire and report on the treatment of prisoners in this camp; and, if not, will he take steps to have inquiries made?

Sir E. GREY

A report on the camp at Schneidemuhl by the United States Embassy at Berlin was published in the Press on 2nd November. The report is not unsatisfactory. Many complaints have been received as to the conditions prevailing at this camp at an earlier date, and it is, I presume, to such complaints that the hon. Member refers. If the hon. Member has received unsatisfactory information as to the present conditions at this camp, and will communicate this information to me, I shall be glad to make inquiries.

Colonel LOCKWOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that British prisoners are being used by the German authorities for cleaning the streets, clearing away the snow, and for similar work?

Sir E. GREY

Perhaps the right hon. and gallant Gentleman will give me notice of that question.