PRISONERS OF WAR

Greymouth Evening Star, 20 February 1945, Page 7

PRISONERS OF WAR

GERMAN CAMP CONDITIONS

WELLINGTON, February 17. The Prisoner of War Office has received a report of a visit by an International Red Cross delegate to Oflag IX at the end of November. There were then approximately 21 New Zealanders among the 460 officers The prisoners’ food parcel reserve at that time permitted a parcel a week till January 15. The health of the prisoners was stated to be excellent. Recreations were well organised and study courses well attended. . Oflag XIIB was also visited at the end of November. There were then 36 New Zealanders among the 3000 prisoners."" Accommodation at the camp was good. Orderlies cooked food from the Red Cross supply and a sufficient stock of parcels was then held for six weeks. The authorities had issued instructions for the establishment of a marching reserve to be ready in the event of the camp being m Clothing was adequate but shoes needing repair. Various reouests were forwarded to the Red Cross- Committee at Geneva. The health of the prisoners was good Hygienic conditions prevailed and regular Protestant services were held. Great interest was taken in study courses The arrival and dispatch of mails was slower. Discipline was excsllout. " Conies are wanted of letters from Stalag 317 (XVIIIC).