HC Deb 16 March 1955 vol 538 cc1300-1
54. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Minister of Defence on what date the questioning of our returned Korean prisoners of war was begun; when it was completed; how many men were so questioned; and how many were officers and how many other ranks.

The Minister of Defence (Mr. Harold Macmillan)

The questioning of the first batch of repatriated sick and wounded began in April, 1953, and the last interview was conducted in June, 1954. All repatriated British prisoners, that is, 43 officers and 935 other ranks, were interviewed on release in Korea.

Mr. Hamilton

Can the Minister give us detailed information about how the evidence was taken, how much of it was oral, how much was written, and can he indicate how much of it was based—[Interruption.] It is rather important that we should have these details—on books written by prisoners, particularly in the Gloucester Regiment, and whether he has made representations to his right hon. Friend the Leader of the House with a view to our having a debate on the question?

Mr. Macmillan

In regard to the first part of that question, if the hon. Gentleman will put it down I will try to give him a detailed reply, but I hope he is not associating with those who are trying to throw themselves against the bona fides of these reports.

Mr. Hamilton

Is the Minister aware that we on this side of the House are just as much concerned to get at the truth of this matter as he is? If he has anything to hide let him say so, but if he has not let us know the truth.

Mr. Macmillan

I have nothing to hide, but I rather resented what seemed to be an innuendo.