§ 21. Mr. Lipsonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if, at the forthcoming conference with Marshal Stalin, he will ask him to make representations to the Japanese Government with regard to the better treatment of British prisoners of war; and to an exchange of prisoners.
§ Mr. LawMatters concerned with prisoners of war are dealt with through the Protecting Power, and as a general rule it is better to leave them in the hands of the Protecting Power. It is not, therefore, proposed to raise this question at the forthcoming conference. The hon. Member is, of course, aware that we have already made use of Soviet good offices in connection with the movement of relief supplies from Vladivostock.
§ Mr. LipsonIs the Minister aware that negotiations with the Protecting Power have not produced satisfactory results, 1437 and that relatives of British prisoners of war in Japanese hands are very concerned at their treatment? In view of the fact that Japan must be anxious to maintain relations with the Soviet Government could he not reconsider his decision?
§ Mr. LawNo, Sir, I do not think that this decision, which has been come to after very careful consideration, can be reconsidered. I am, of course, fully aware of the feeling there is among relatives in this country, and I can assure the hon. Member that the Government are doing everything in their power to get better conditions. The difficulty, however, is not really with the channel through which we negotiate, but with the people with whom we have to negotiate.
§ Mr. LipsonWould not the Japanese be more likely to listen to the Russian Government than to the Protecting Power? That is my point.