HC Deb 26 October 1943 vol 393 cc22-3
33. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Secretary of State for War how many German prisoners captured at Tunis have agreed to serve in the Polish Army; whether their offer has been accepted; have the antecedents of these men been investigated; for what purpose these prisoners are being used; and are any of them now stationed in a district of which he has been informed?

Sir J. Grigg

A number of these prisoners, who are Poles, have volunteered to serve in the Polish Forces, but it would not be in the public interest to say how many. They have been accepted after a close examination by the security authorities. Some of them are serving in the district referred to by my hon. Friend.

Mr. Shinwell

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that this is all square and above board, and that these men will not be used for purposes other than defeating the enemy?

Sir J. Grigg

I have no knowledge to the contrary. I think the arrangements with the Polish Government are made by the Foreign Office.

Mr. Shinwell

As this matter affects general war operations, with which my right hon. Friend is so much concerned, will he keep an eye on it?

Forward to