§ 33. Mr. William Shepherdasked the Secretary of State for War how many German prisoners of war have been brought from Germany to this country for the purpose of labour.
§ The Secretary of State for War (Mr. J. J. Lawson)There are 388,000 German prisoners. Up to 23rd July. 74,000 German prisoners of war had been transferred from B.A.O.R. I cannot say how many of them came direct from Germany; most of the men came from camps in Belgium.
§ Mr. ShepherdIn view of the situation in Germany, is the Minister completely satisfied that this transfer is free from the taint of slave labour?
§ Mr. LawsonYes, I am quite satisfied.
§ Mr. StokesIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a large number of these people came first from America, on their exportation from which they were promised repatriation to Germany? Does he not think, in view of the statement made last night, that it is the considered opinion of His Majesty's Government that this traffic in slave labour should stop?
§ Mr. LawsonThat is another matter altogether. It is really a matter of policy for the Government to decide.
§ Mr. HoggWill the right hon. Gentleman not tell us a little about the procedure for bringing this labour over from Germany? Is it indented for by the Government, and, if it is. is no attempt made to find out how many hungry people would be willing to work for us free and for no wages?
§ Mr. LawsonThe hon. Gentleman will have to put that Question down for the simple reason that all I am asked for here is specific figures.
§ Mr. HoggDo I understand that the right hon. Gentleman does rot know the procedure for transferring these men?