HC Deb 17 December 1946 vol 431 c1756
5. Mr. Stokes

asked the Secretary of State for War at what rate prisoners of war are permitted to change marks into sterling; and how this compares with the official rate.

Mr. Bellenger

Prisoners of war do not have occasion to change marks into sterling but my hon. Friend may be referring to the reverse procedure. Remittances to Germany and the payment of credit balances on repatriation are changed at the rate of 15 Reichmarks to the pound.

Mr. Stokes

Will my right hon. Friend explain why this is inflicted on these people? Why should not they be allowed exchange at 40 marks to the £, which is the normal rate?

Mr. Bellenger

No, Sir. Forty marks to the pound is not the normal rate. That is a purely concessional rate for occupation troops. Fifteen marks to the £ was arranged in accordance with the Geneva Convention.

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