HC Deb 24 January 1940 vol 356 c555
10. Mr. Keeling

asked the Prime Minister whether he has any information as to the condition of British subjects in Poland; and whether the British Red Cross and Order of St. John are being asked to send them supplies?

The Prime Minister

His Majesty's Government have information relating to a total of 74 British subjects and 268 Palestinians, about half of whom are in German occupied territory, and the remainder in the area occupied by Soviet forces. All are believed to be suffering considerable hardship. Efforts have been made to supply those in the German occupied area with parcels of food through the British Red Cross and Order of St. John, but the German Government have refused the necessary facilities.

As regards persons in the Soviet occupied area, the International Red Cross are examining the possibility of affording relief. His Majesty's Ambassador at Moscow has sent members of his staff to Lwow to organise and assist the withdrawal of British subjects and Palestinian citizens, and has made funds available for their relief.

Mr. Keeling

As regards the British subjects in the German zone, would my right hon. Friend consider making representations to the American Ambassador?

The Prime Minister

The United States Consul at Warsaw has authority to grant relief up to a maximum of £10 a month to British subjects where needed. I do not think we can do more than that.