§ Mr. Hunterasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that much anxiety prevails among relatives of prisoners of war in Offlag IX A/H. Germany; at the absence of letters, from that camp; that it is reported that the German authorities have placed a restriction on letters; that the reason for this is not known; nor how long the restriction may remain in force; and can he make a statement on the matter?
§ Sir J. GriggI am aware that the German authorities, apparently under a misapprehension as to the mail facilities available to German prisoners throughout the Empire, appear to have imposed some temporary limitation on the correspondence of British prisoners in many German camps. Steps were taken to make the real facts clear to the German authorities and I have reason to believe that the restrictions are being removed. There are already indications of a return to the normal volume of correspondence.
§ Mr. N. Bowerasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is satisfied that the existence of the Prisoners of War Inquiry Department of the War Office is sufficiently well known both to Members of Parliament and the general public; and whether, in view of the saving of labour that would result if people made their inquiries direct to that organisation, he will endeavour to arrange for somewhat greater publicity to be given to its activities?
§ Sir J. GriggJudging by the numbers who avail themselves of its services it is evident that the Prisoner of War Inquiry Centre in Curzon Street is widely known and that its work is appreciated. I will, however, see that from time to time suitable opportunities are taken to draw the attention of the public to the services afforded them by the Inquiry Centre.