GERMAN CAMP REPORTS

Evening Post, Volume CXXXVI, Issue 63, 11 September 1943, Page 6

GERMAN CAMP REPORTS

Stalag 383, Germany, was visited by an International Red Cross representative at the end of June, 1943, and a report received by the Prisoners of War Inquiry Office headquarters states that amongst the 4000 British prisoners there were 300 New Zealanders. The total number of prisoners at this camp was recently increased when transfers from Stalag VIII B were effected. The clothing position is stated to be satisfactory, although there is no reserve of trousers. Food rations are supplemented by vegetables grown by the prisoners. The British representative has absolute control over bulk food parcels. Correspondence is regular, recreation well organised, and there is a swimming bath. Stalag Luft 111, Germany, was visited at the end of July. The accommodation is stated to be excellent, with large barracks each housing 80 men divided in small rooms for six to eight officers, double-storeyed beds, and numerous cupboards in the centre of each barrack, and wash basins with 12 to 16' water taps. There are stoves in each room. Food rations are as per regulations, kitchens are well fitted out, and 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 have weekly showers. Dental attention is said to be excellent. There are regular religious services. The report concludes that the discipline is severe as a result of attempts to escape.

BEER AND LEMONADE

Ofiag VII B, Germany, visited at the end of July, accommodates approximately 1700 British prisoners of war, Food is stated as being according to ration regulations. Clothing is excellent, each officer possessing two uniforms, two pairs of leather shoes, and sufficient underclothing. There are hot shower facilities, sufficient wash basins, and numerous latrines. Medical attention is excellent. The canteen sells beer and lemonade, but lacks toilet articles. Three British chaplains conduct services. ' The library contains 12,000 books. There is an orchestra and numerous sports are indulged in. The discipline is stated to be severe but in accordance with regulations. If next-of-kin have recently received letters from prisoners in Germany requesting battledress or containing complaints that the prisoner is inconvenienced on account of insufficient uniform, they are requested to forward exact copies of such information to the Prisoners of War Inquiry Office. The date of the letter must be given and also the camp address.