DISABLED PRISONERS

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 198, 19 May 1944, Page 5

DISABLED PRISONERS

Exchange At Barcelona (British Official Wireless and Press Assn.) (Received May 18. 8 p.m.) RUdBY, May 17. Hie repatriation of more Commonwealth and United States disubled prisoners of war and protected personnel under the Geneva Convention has been arranged with the co-operation of the Spanish Govefntoent. The ship which brings them from Marseilles has reached Barcelona, whence they will be embarked for transportation to their homes. The second ship, the Swedish Gripsholm, has conveyed to Barcelona 713 German prisoners in Commonealth and United States hands and is now aouut to return , via a North African port where all those belonging to the Australian, New Zealand, South African, Indian and certain colonial forces will be disembarked and taken home as soon as transport is available. Those destined for the United Kingdom. Canada, Newfoundland, the West Indies and the United States will proceed to a port in the United whence the ship will carry only men whose destinations are North America, As far as is known, the party will/include more than 800 men of the Commonwealth, of whom more than 500 are from the United Kingdom.

A message from the King to the British Commonwealth prisoners reufls: “The Queen and I rejoice to think that you are now safely ou your way home. Through all trials and sufferings you have 1 been constantly in our thoughts and it is our heartfelt hope that your release may bring you restored health and a full measure of happiness.” The German news agency said that the exchange of prisoners was carried out this afternoon, and added that among those present during the exchange was the Australian wife of the British Minister. Mrs. Yencken, who welcomed the Australian wounded. Local authorities distributed chocolate, cigarettes, wines, liqueurs, and other comforts to the prisoners.