HC Deb 29 June 1948 vol 452 cc195-6W
72. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will have a special investigation, calling for evidence from British and Germans, on the conditions and circumstances during September, 1947, in A Mess and B Mess in the No. 6 Civilian Internment Camp, Germany.

Mr. Mayhew

No complaints about these messes had previously reached the Foreign Office or the Zonal Headquarters of the Control Commission, but my right hon. Friend has asked for a report, and I will communicate with my hon. Friend.

73. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs on what date was work started in the sewerage plant seven miles from the C.I.C. Camp, Germany; what hours are worked on the site; when it is intended to finish the work; why 12 men who are working on this scheme have 15 guards; why five ton lorries were used to bring them from Hamburg, an approximate distance of 20 miles; how long is it since these lorries were hired from Bergedorf; and what is the difference in mileage.

Mr. Mayhew

I have been unable to trace any instance of prisoners being brought from Hamburg or Bergedorf to work on a sewerage scheme. If my hon. Friend will furnish more precise details of the location of the plant in question I shall be glad to make further inquiries.

74. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will ask for a report on what took place during May, 1948, in No. 6 Civilian Internment Camp, Germany, in view of the fact that 2,000 marks were taken; and, in particular, if he will inquire into the circumstances in which the Accounts Officer granted a loan of 1,300 marks to the Governor of the camp and into the reasons for the discontent amongst the drivers in this camp.

Mr. Mayhew

A Board of Investigation is now sitting, and my right hon. Friend is calling for a full report.