HC Deb 13 March 1940 vol 358 cc1205-6W
Sir J. Lucas

asked the Prime Minister whether the British Air Attaché in Brussels is allowed to visit British interned prisoners of war, or whether they have to rely on the good offices of the United States Consul to safeguard their interests?

Mr. Butler

I have ascertained that neither the Air Attaché nor the diplomatic staff of His Majesty's Embassy at Brussels have, at any time, been refused access to the British interned prisoners of war.

Sir J. Lucas

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, seeing that the Belgian Government have offered temporary parole to British interned prisoners to get exercise outside their place of internment and to visit cinemas, etc., the officers and men concerned are allowed to give this temporary parole or not?

Mr. Stanley

I have no information regarding the offer said to have been made by the Belgian Government. The rule is that parole may not be given, but there may be no objection to a temporary undertaking not to escape during a brief period for some purpose, such as exercise, of benefit to the prisoner.

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