BRITISH PRISONERS OF WAR

HC Deb 28 January 1943 vol 386 cc625-6W

Mr. Hutchinson

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has any information with regard to the conditions under which British prisoners of war are confined at Stalag XX B, in Germany; and whether there has been any recent change in their conditions?

Sir J. Grigg

My latest information refers to conditions at Stalag XX B and some dependent work camps in November, 1942. In the main camp the delousing plant is still unfinished and the coal ration is less than last year. In six work detachments various deficiencies are reported. These facts are all known to the Protecting Power. On the other hand, in 12 work camps conditions are described as greatly improved and in general the camp is said to have improved. Other detachments have not been visited recently but should information showing particularly unsatisfactory conditions come to the notice of the War Office the Protecting Power will be informed of this at once. The attitude of the camp authorities to the prisoners of war is said to be more sympathetic. The general morale of the prisoners both in the main and the work camps is reported to be high.

Dr. Morgan

asked the Secretary of State for War whether any information has yet reached this country, or the International Red Cross, about British officers and other ranks known to be missing in Java; what attempts are being made to secure information; and what arrangements have been made for its immediate notification to relatives by broadcast?

Sir J. Grigg

Apart from the names of 16 officers, last heard of in Java, who have been reported as prisoners of war by the Japanese Government, no information has been received about individual officers and other ranks in that island. Any information received by the International Red Cross Committee in Geneva would be passed on to the British Government. Information is being sought from every source which might be able to furnish it. It is to be expected that the names of many will appear in the lists of prisoners of war taken in the Far East, furnished by the Japanese Government, which, up to the present, are very far from complete. As soon as any information is received about individuals, it is communicated to the next-of-kin in the usual manner.