§ 33. Mr. Dribergasked the Secretary of State for War whether he has now communicated with the Commander of the British Forces in Korea on the subject of a local overseas allowance; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. StracheyThe answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes." In the opinion of the Commander there is no case for a local overseas allowance in Korea.
§ 41. Mr. Dribergasked the Secretary of State for War what further news he has of British Service men formerly reported missing and subsequently reported to be prisoners-of-war; and if he will make new efforts to communicate with them and to secure an exchange of prisoners.
§ Mr. StracheyNo official news of British prisoners-of-war in North Korea is available. Peking radio has, however, announced that mail is being sent home from United Nations prisoners and at least one letter has reached this country. Indications have also been given that letters from relatives will be forwarded to the prisoners and the arrangements for posting such mail were announced by my right hon. Friend the Postmaster-General on 29th March. While advantage is being taken of these unofficial arrangements, every effort is continuing to be made to set up official channels of communication. With regard to the possibility of securing an exchange of prisoners, this is a matter which involves the Unified Command.
6W
§ 43. Mr. Mott-Radclyffeasked the Secretary of State for War the medical category of 6204638 Private D. Gwinnell, C Company, Royal Ulster Rifles, J Rear Holding Unit, care of British Army, Post Office 3, prior to his embarkation for Korea; what further medical examination he has received since his arrival in Korea; and, if so, with what result.
§ Mr. StracheyThe hon. Member will now have received my letter of 2nd April, giving this information.