WAR PRISONERS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 11 September 1943, Page 4

WAR PRISONERS

CONDITIONS IN GERMAN CAMPS _ INTERNATIONAL RED CROSS REPORTS. LETTERS WANTED BY INQUIRY OFFICE. (By Telegraph—Press Association.) WELLINGTON, This Day. Stalag 383, Germany, was visited by an International Red Cross representative at the end of June. A report states that among the 4,000 British prisoners in the camp are 300 New Zealanders. The total number of prisoners in this camp was increased recently when transfers were made from Stalag VIII B. The clothing position was stated to be satisfactory, although there was no reserve of trousers. Food rations were supplemented by vegetables grown by the prisoners. A British representative had absolute control over bulk food parcels. Correspondence was regular and recreation well organised. There was a swimming bath. Stalag Luft 111, Germany, was visited at the end of July. The accommodation was stated to be excellent, with large barracks, each housing 80 men, divided into small rooms for six to eight officers. There are double-storied beds, with numerous cupboards, washbasins and watertaps. There are stoves in each room. Food rations are as per regulations and kitchens are well fitted out. Food is prepared by orderlies under the control of a German N.C.O. The camp canteen is well organised, although there is a lack of toilet articles. The men had weekly showers. Dental attention was excellent. There were regular religious services. Discipline was severe as d result of attempts to escape.

In Oflag VII B, Germany, visited at the end of July, there are approximately 1,700 British prisoners. Food is according to regulations. Clothing is excellent, each officer possessing two uniforms, two pairs of leather shoes and sufficient underclothing. Hot shower facilities were sufficient. There were wash basins and numerous latrines. Medical attention was excellent. Canteens sell beer and lemonade, but lack toilet articles. Three British chaplains are conducting services. There is a library of 12,000 books, an orchestra and numerous sports. Discipline is severe, but according to regulations. If next of kin have recently received letters from prisoners in Germany requesting battle dress, or containing complaints that the prisoner is inconvenienced on account of insufficient uniform, they are asked to send exact copies to the Prisoner of War Inquiry Offiee, Wellington, giving the date of the letter and the camp address.