§ Mr. Stokesasked the Secretary of State for War how many Italian prisoners of war arc still in India; and when their repatriation will be completed.
§ Mr. LawsonThere were 15,681 in India on 30th June. During July shipping space is available which will enable some 8,000 to be repatriated to Italy with the result that at the end of this month only some 7,700 will still await repatriation. The date on which their repatriation can be completed depends upon the quantity of shipping which can be made available for the purpose, having regard to other urgent demands upon our limited resources. It cannot at present be forecast.