MISSING SOLDIERS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24630, 11 June 1941, Page 4

MISSING SOLDIERS

MEN BELIEVED PRISONERS OF WAR ADVICE ON DESPATCH OF LETTERS (P.A.) WELLINGTON, June 10. In a recent newspaper report from the official war correspondent with the N.Z.E.F. it was stated that Colonel F. Waite, Patriotic Fund commissioner, advised persons in New Zealand to despatch to the base post office in the Middle East any letters which they desired to send to soldiers believed to be prisoners of war. The Postmaster-general, Mr P. C. Webb, emphasises that if this course is followed the letters sent must conform to the provisions relating to communications with prisoners of war. For instance, there must be no mention in the address of the soldier's unit. The letter must not exceed one sheet of ordinary note paper, and the writer's address must be shown on the cover as well as on the letter itself. The address must be written in ink and the letter must not contain any military or information likely to be useful to the enemy. If these requirements are not complied with, letters are likely to be stopped. Full information regarding communication with prisoners of war is available at the principal post offices. The Minister advises writers to address their letters merely as follows: "Prisoner of War Post. Kriegsgefangenenpost, 00201 Gunner J. Blank, believed prisoner of war." Letters so addressed will be despatched by the New Zealand Post Office, the remaining particulars in the address being filled in when they become available.