HC Deb 15 March 1945 vol 409 c395
74. Mr. E. J. Williams

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has a statement to make about the escape of prisoners-of-war from the camp at Bridgend, Glamorgan.

Mr. A. Henderson

An escape by 67 German prisoners-of-war, of whom 65 were officers, took place at 04.00 hours on 11th March from a camp in South Wales. 48 of them have now been recaptured. The escape was effected by means of a tunnel 20 yards long, the entrance to which was in a corner of a living hut, an 18 inch square of 4-inch concrete having been cut out and carefully camouflaged. A court of inquiry is being convened.

Mr. E. J. Williams

While thanking the Minister for his reply, may I ask whether the inquiry which will be conducted will include the question of the siting of the camp itself?

Mr. Henderson

No, Sir.

Mr. Thorne

What kind of implements were used in this escape?

Mr. Henderson

We had better wait until the inquiry takes place.

Sir H. Williams

How is it that these men were able to dispose of the very large amount of earth from the tunnel without anybody spotting them?

Mr. Henderson

We had better wait until we have seen the report of the court of inquiry.

Mr. James Griffiths

In view of the fact that the inquiry may not cover the point, will the Minister consider whether this site is suitable?

Mr. Henderson

We will look into that aspect of the question.

Mr. Edģar Granville

Will the Minister now expedite the arrangements for receiving a deputation of Members of this House who have continually called attention to Nazi activities among prisoners-of-war?