§ 74. Mr. E. J. Williamsasked 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. HendersonAn 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. WilliamsWhile 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. HendersonNo, Sir.
§ Mr. ThorneWhat kind of implements were used in this escape?
§ Mr. HendersonWe had better wait until the inquiry takes place.
§ Sir H. WilliamsHow is it that these men were able to dispose of the very large amount of earth from the tunnel without anybody spotting them?
§ Mr. HendersonWe had better wait until we have seen the report of the court of inquiry.
§ Mr. James GriffithsIn view of the fact that the inquiry may not cover the point, will the Minister consider whether this site is suitable?
§ Mr. HendersonWe will look into that aspect of the question.
§ Mr. Edģar GranvilleWill 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?