§ 66. Lieut.-Commander Joynson-Hicksasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the total fuel allowance to our prisoners of war in Oflag VIIB is 11 tons for this winter; that this is less than one-third of last winter's allowance; and what steps are being taken to obtain a substantial increase.
§ Sir J. GriggAccording to the latest report by the Protecting Power, the fuel supply of Oflag VIIB is 70 per cent. of last year's. This reduction was made the 649 subject of a strong complaint by the Protecting Power and as a result permission has been given to the prisoners to cut a quantity of wood from the local forest to supplement their fuel ration. Having regard to the severe fuel restrictions imposed on the civil population in Germany, His Majesty's Government are satisfied that the Protecting Power are doing all that can be done in the circumstances.
§ Lieut.-Commander Joynson-HicksIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that very grave hardship is being suffered in this camp, and will he do everything in his power to press for increased fuel supplies?
§ Sir J. GriggIn the first place the figure given in the hon. and gallant Member's Question is less than half the real figure. In the second place, as I thought I had made clear in my answer, some result has followed the representations of the Protecting Power.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a large number of people in East London are also suffering great hardship through lack of fuel?