§ 52. Mr. Pagetasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how many cases of hunger oedema have occurred amongst internees in British internment camps in Germany.
§ Mr. J. HyndNo statistics exist, or can be obtained, of the number of cases of hunger œdema which have occurred in these camps. The number of internees at present in hospital or sick bay suffering from malnutrition, is 1,257. This figure is steadily decreasing.
§ Mr. PagetIs it not a fact that very large numbers in these camps have suffered from hunger œdema, and that they are continuing to suffer, and there are continually new cases?
§ Mr. HyndIt is a fact that there have been large numbers in these camps who have shown signs of malnutrition, following the cut in rations in March. Precisely because of that fact, specially increased rations were given to the inmates of these camps and the numbers are rapidly decreasing. In fact, the cases have been halved in the last two months.