§ 39. Commander Sir Archibald Southbyasked the Secretary of State for War how many parcels for prisoners of war are now awaiting transport from Lisbon to Marseilles; how many are expected to arrive at Lisbon during the next few months; 24 what is the estimated rate of shipment to Marseilles by the ships now available; and what steps are being taken to provide further shipping space?
§ Sir J. GriggAt the end of April rather over 1,000,000 parcels were awaiting transport from Lisbon to Marseilles for onward transmission to British prisoners of war and internees in Germany and Italy. In addition there were over 200 tons of food in bulk and some 200 tons of clothing. During May it is expected that over 600,000 parcels will be despatched from Lisbon. The present rate of flow of parcels to Lisbon and onwards to Marseilles is about half a million a month. It is intended somewhat to increase this rate in order once again to build up a reserve at Geneva. The British Red Cross Society have recently chartered additional vessels for this service and negotiations to secure a further increase in tonnage are in progress.
§ Sir A. SouthbyCan my right hon. Friend say whether that means that the flow of parcels actually reaching the men will now become satisfactory as the result of these proposals?
§ Sir J. GriggI hope it will improve. It is very difficult to promise that it will become satisfactory in view of the fact that from Marseilles onwards the conditions are outside the control of this country or even of the Red Cross.
§ Sir W. DavisonCan the right hon. Gentleman say what is the cause of the deterioration which has recently occurred in the delivery of parcels?
§ Sir J. GriggI think that has been explained already.
Miss WardMay I ask whether the arrangements for food to be sent from America are now thoroughly satisfactory or whether there have been any delays in the negotiations?
§ Sir J. GriggThat is another question.