HC Deb 22 October 1946 vol 427 c1468
17. Mr. Stokes

asked the Secretary of State for War how soon he will be able to make a statement regarding the repatriation of the 98,000 German and 5,000 Austrian prisoners of war detained in the Middle East Command; and if he will arrange for their repatriation at a rate proportionate to the repatriation now being carried out from this country.

Mr. J. Freeman

I cannot at present add anything to the reply given to my hon. Friend on 8th October. There are many factors involved, including shipping, even for the limited repatriation already agreed upon. We shall introduce an accelerated programme as soon as circumstances allow.

Mr. Stokes

As the reply referred to cast nothing but gloom over the persons in question, will my hon. Friend make representations to his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State that he should give immediate reconsideration to this matter and take some action, for which he is famous?

Mr. Freeman

My right hon. Friend is sitting beside me, and I have no doubt that he has had the benefit of my hon. Friend's remarks.

Mr. Skeffington-Lodge

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that the conditions under which the bulk of these men at present exist in the Middle East are much less good than the conditions in which prisoners in this country are living?

Mr. Freeman

Yes, Sir, and so are the conditions in which our troops are living in the Middle East.