§ Mr. Parker.asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that prisoners of war at camp P.E. 52, Aut 37, PM 3100 in Italy have been receiving in their Red Cross parcels syrup and biscuits from certain manufacturing firms in short measure; and whether he will take action in the matter?
§ Sir J. GriggApart from the one complaint in a prisoner's letter forwarded to me by my hon. Friend, no such complaints have reached me or the British Red Cross. I am therefore unable to accept the suggestion that this allegation, even if true, rests on anything more than an isolated case. In these circumstances I do not consider any action called for.
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§ Mr. Magnayasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Private Frank Smith, Tyneside Scottish, 4456294, who was a prisoner of war, number 10233, in camp M. Stamminger XXB 357, was shot in cold blood by the sentry; and what is being done to obtain evidence of the outrage and to identify the sentry so that he will be dealt with in due course?
§ Sir J. GriggYes, Sir. Statements have been received through the Protecting Power from British prisoners of war in the camp. The findings of a German court of inquiry have also been received, exonerating the guard. Steps have been taken to inform the German Government that the findings of the court cannot be accepted and to demand the re-opening of the proceedings against the guard. The guard's name has not been divulged by the German Government. Efforts to identify him will be made by all available means.