HC Deb 01 December 1942 vol 385 cc988-9
10. Mr. Graham White

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has received information that prisoners of war in Oflag VII B are being held in chains for 12 hours during the day; and whether he will make representations about this treatment through the Protecting Power?

Sir J. Grigg

Yes, Sir. This is of course mixed up with the general matter of policy on which there are Questions down to the Prime Minister later on the Order Paper, and perhaps my hon. Friend would await the answer to those.

45. Miss Ward

asked the Prime Minister whether he can now make a statement on the manacling of prisoners of war?

47. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Prime Minister whether he is now in a position to make a statement respecting the chaining of prisoners?

The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

We have received an interim communication from the Protecting Power and are in further communication with them about the matter.

Miss Ward

Could the right hon. Gentleman inform the House on what date it was said that we should have an early statement on this question?

Mr. Attlee

I could not without notice.

Miss Ward

Will my right hon. Friend look it up, because it is important?

Mr. Attlee

Certainly.

Sir A. Knox

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the possibility of the British Government, if possible in conjunction with the United States Government, issuing a solemn statement that they have got no prisoners of war at present manacled?

Sir Frank Sanderson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that prisoners of war taken three years ago at Dunkirk are reported to-day as being placed in chains by the Germans and separated from other prisoners in wire cages?

Miss Ward

Could we have a Secret Session on this? Will not the right hon. Gentleman consider the suggestion?

Viscountess Astor

Would it not be better if the Government just said they had make a mistake?

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