§ 109. Mr. Collinsasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that Italian prisoners of war stationed at Baronsdown Camp, Dulverton, Somerset, and employed on farms in the district, were withdrawn on 9th July at less than 24 hours' notice without arrangements having been made for their immediate replacement, with resultant spoiling of large quantities of hay; what action he proposes to take with the officers responsible; and if he will consult the Ministry of Agriculture in future before withdrawing prisoner labour.
§ Mr. LawsonThe short notice was due to an unexpected increase in the shipping made available for the repatriation of these men. Replacements were not available at once owing to a telegraphic delay, but they have now been provided.