HC Deb 07 February 1945 vol 407 cc2069-70
45. Mr. Purbrick

asked the Prime Minister whether he will notify the Germans that unless our prisoners of war in their hands are properly fed and housed, we shall reduce the standard of conditions of living of the German prisoners of war in our hands to the same level.

The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

No, Sir. The obligations imposed by the Geneva Convention are that the food and housing conditions of prisoners of war should correspond with those of the depot troops of the detaining Power. It is the policy of all His Majesty's Governments to comply with these obligations.

Mr. Purbrick

Are we to understand from that that it is not the policy of the Government to have these reprisals?

Mr. Attlee

The policy of the Government is as I have stated.

Mr. McGovern

Will my right hon. Friend realise that the people of this country will be against using the physical well-being of the prisoners for a battle between brutal Governments?