HC Deb 29 July 1946 vol 426 cc492-3
4. Mr. Michael Astor

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of recent disclosures about conditions in certain prisoner-of-war and civilian internment camps, the British Government will arrange for the regular inspection of all camps in all Allied territories by the International Red Cross, or some other international body.

Mr. Noel-Baker

As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State explained to the hon. Member, the International Red Cross have themselves proposed to limit their visits to camps in the United Kingdom to cases where requests are made by the British authorities, by the camp leaders, or by the prisoners of war through the medium of their camp leaders. As I am sure the hon. Member will understand, inquiries into camps on Allied territory are a matter for direct arrangement between the International Red Cross and the Governments of the Allied nations concerned.

Mr. Astor

Will His Majesty's Government give a lead in this respect, in view of the fact that the Peace Conference is starting, and matters of this kind will come up for review? Would the right hon. Gentleman instigate a regular, routine inquiry to include all nations?

Mr. Noel-Baker

His Majesty's Government give every possible facility to the Red Cross, for which they ask, and I feel sure that the International Red Cross Committee are not backward in making demands if they think there is a case for inquiry.

Mr. Skeffington-Lodge

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that in this matter, in which the good name of this country is at stake in some degree, some further investigation or statement might be helpful?

Mr. Noel-Baker

I have said that we have never refused, and will never refuse, any request by the International Red Cross Committee to make an inquiry.

Mr. Nicholson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that more people are detained now than in any previous period since time began? Will not the Government take a lead in this question, and not just sit back?

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