HC Deb 08 December 1942 vol 385 c1417
12. Mr. Ivor Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for War whether in view of Mussolini's recent broadcast, he proposes to make any statement on the treatment of Italian prisoners by our troops?

Sir J. Grigg

All complaints made by prisoners of war or by the Italian Government through the Protecting Power are fully investigated whenever sufficient details are given in the complaint to enable this to be done, and a full answer is invariably sent. As no details were given, it has been impossible to inquire into the allegations made in Mussolini's recent broadcast. No such complaints have been received from the Italian Government, and I should be very surprised if there were anything in the allegations made except propaganda. Our treatment of prisoners of war is based on the scrupulous observance of the Geneva Convention, and I do not consider any statement on the subject is necessary.

Mr. Hannah

Has Mussolini a high reputation for truthfulness?