HC Deb 05 November 1940 vol 365 cc1197-8
44. Mr. Ammon

asked the Home Secretary whether there are any developments arising out of the attempts by the Red Cross Society to open up communication with the Channel Islands?

Mr. Peake

I am informed that the Foreign Relations Department of the Red Cross and Order of St. John has succeeded in arranging a special Message Scheme for the Channel Islands. Persons desiring to communicate with their relatives or friends in the Islands can do so by taking ten-word messages to certain Citizens' Advice Bureaux, the addresses of which may be obtained at the nearest post office. The cost is 6d. per message, including reply. Messages must be written in English or French, and must deal with family matters only. They will go by air mail to Geneva, there to be dealt with by the International Red Cross Committee, but replies should not be expected for some weeks.

Mr. Ammon

Can the hon. Gentleman give any information to the House as to the conditions in the Channel Islands?

Mr. Peake

I am afraid I cannot.

Mr. Mander

Does this arrangement apply to all the Channel Islands?

Mr. Peake

Yes, Sir.