§ 24. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Secretary of State for War what reports he has received from officers in charge of Russian ex-prisoners of war on their work and conduct compared to prisoners of war; what are the nature of the reports; are the Russians being provided with adequate clothing and food; and what is the prospect of their returning home.
§ Sir J. GriggA number of the Soviet nationals captured in the course of hostilities in France who have been evacuated to the United Kingdom, have been employed here in agreement with the Soviet authorities. Their work and general conduct have been most satisfactory. They have been provided with adequate clothing and food. Arrangements have already been made for the repatriation of those for whom shipping is available.
§ Mr. TurtonIs my right hon. Friend satisfied that these ex-prisoners of war have sufficient interpreters, and that sufficient welfare facilities are given to the camps?
§ Sir J. GriggI think that the arrangements for repatriation have covered most of the prisoners. There was difficulty at first about interpreters, but that has now been solved. As far as welfare factors are concerned, there have been considerable discussions, between British and Soviet military authorities in this country.