§ Viscount WOLMERasked the Secretary of State for War what arrangements have been made for the safeguarding, of graves of British troops in Gallipoli?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLAt the present time Graves Registration Units are employed in the reconstruction and care of the cemeteries on the Gallipoli Peninsula. Eventually the cemeteries will be handed over to the care of the Imperial War Graves Commission. Provision is being made in the Peace Treaty with the Turkish Government for the necessary recognition of the Commission.
§ Viscount WOLMERasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the Director of Graves and Registration, and Inquiries, frequently omits to answer letters addressed to him by relatives of fallen soldiers for several months; and whether steps will be taken to secure that greater courtesy be shown to the bereaved relatives?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe number of inquiries received daily by the Directorate of Graves Registration and Inquiries amounts, on an average, to between 1,200 and 1,500. Each letter is acknowledged on2254W receipt, but often definite replies cannot be given till full inquiry has been made, which may necessitate reference to one of the various theatres of war, and consequently some weeks must often elapse before a full reply can be given. I understand also that during the influenza epidemic a very large number of clerkswere absent owing to illness, and the-work fell into arrears in consequence. A notice to this effect was published in the Press on 24th February, 1919. It has always been the desire of the Director-General to treat every request received with the greatest courtesy and consideration, and it is regretted if, in the press of work, any letters have been overlooked. I should be glad if my Noble Friend would give me particulars of any cases known to him in which replies have not been received so that I may have them investigated.