HC Deb 21 March 1944 vol 398 c644
2. General Sir George Jeffreys

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the many complaints of the rifling of the kits of dead officers in the Mediterranean theatre of war when these kits have been packed for consignment to their relatives at home; and who is responsible for the care of such kits up to the time of their being loaded on board ship.

Sir J. Grigg

Yes, Sir. I am aware that such complaints have been made. The military authorities in the Mediterranean theatre are investigating the position.

Sir G. Jeffreys

Will the Minister urge upon the military authorities to take more drastic steps? Will he ask them to investigate the position and to deal effectively with those responsible?

Sir J. Grigg

Yes, Sir. I was aware of some of the steps which the military authorities were taking when I was out there. The real trouble in this matter is that there are not enough troops to provide the guards and police in the number necessary to ensure that this sort of thing does not happen.