HC Deb 25 October 1939 vol 352 cc1378-9
26. Sir Alexander Russell

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether any arrangements have been made for sending clothing, food and medical supplies to Royal Air Force prisoners of war in Germany?

Sir K. Wood

As stated last week by my hon. Friend, the Financial Secretary to the War Office, a permanent scheme for sending parcels to prisoners of war in Germany is under consideration and details will be announced as soon as possible. Interim arrangements have, however, been made by the Air Ministry, and the first consignment of parcels to Royal Air Force prisoners of war was despatched on 20th October. Parcels for individual prisoners of war may be addressed to the Red Cross, c/o The Lord Chamberlain's Office, St. James's Palace, London, S.W.1, for transmission to Germany. I should like to take this opportunity of thanking the Red Cross Society and the Order of St. John for their great assistance in this matter.

Mr. Thorne

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether our prisoners of war in Germany are allowed to send any communications home pointing out how they are being treated there?

Mr. Keeling

Will my right hon. Friend call the attention of the War Office to these arrangements made for the Royal Air Force, with a view to the War Office hurrying with their permanent arrangements?

Sir K. Wood

I am sure the War Office will do all they can in the matter.