§ 31. Dr. Littleasked the Secretary of State for War how many German prisoners have escaped since their arrival in Northern Ireland and if they have all been recaptured; and whether, owing to the proximity of neutral Eire, steps will be immediately taken to prevent further escapes.
§ Sir J. GriggTwenty German prisoners have escaped and all have been recaptured. Every possible precaution is being taken to prevent escapes.
§ Dr. LittleIn view of the nearness to Ulster of Eire, will strong steps be taken to prevent the escape of these prisoners of war in the future?
§ Sir J. GriggIf every possible precaution is being taken, I do not think I can possibly guarantee to take stronger measures.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Sir Assheton PownallIs it not rather unwise to have considerable numbers of German prisoners 15 or 20 miles from the Eire boundary?
§ Sir J. GriggIt may be the only possible place we have to house them.
Lieut.-Colonel Sir William AllenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these escaped prisoners are in possession of road maps of Ireland; and what steps are being taken to prevent them escaping to their friends in Southern Ireland?
§ Sir J. GriggI would like to verify that particular item of information, which had not been brought to my notice before.