EASIER LIFE IN PRISON CAMPS

Southland Times, Issue 24831, 25 August 1942, Page 3

EASIER LIFE IN PRISON CAMPS

WELLINGTON, August 24. Letters from a New Zealand prisoner of war in Germany and Italy show that conditions in the camps are rapidly improving. Letters written in May are now being received in great numbers from both countries and they indicate that life is easier than in the past in entertainment as well as food and clothing. The Prisoners of War Inquiry Office has cabled the American Red Cross and the British Red Cross about the possibility of sehding additional food parcels. The replies suggested that it would be unwise to go beyond the official channels of regular supply. Jealousies might arise in camps if New Zealand prisoners received preferential treatment and an additional scheme, if developed, would hinder the established flow of food parcels, thus preventing other prisoners from receiving their one parcel every week. It is also stated that the weekly rations were adequate and made up of a well-balanced diet. The number of prisoners on the files is now 6158, excluding 12 unofficial cases.