WAR PRISONERS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25365, 25 October 1943, Page 4

WAR PRISONERS

TRANSIT CAMPS IN GERMANY MEN TRANSFERRED FROM ITALY (P.A.) WELLINGTON, Oct. 22. With reference to recent cablegrams from London that a steamer with repatriated prisoners of war, including New Zealanders, is expected to arrive at Barcelona on Tuesday, the Prisoners-of-War Inquiry Office headquarters at Wellington advises next-of-kin that it is quite unnecessary to communicate with the offices at this stage for information. The Red Cross Commissioner in the Middle East has been instructed by cablegram to make full arrangements 'to meet the requirements of the repatriated men the moment they land. The Inquiry Office also advises that the Government will inform next-of-kin of the prisoners concerned Immediately the names are made available and finally checked. . _ ■ Cabled advice has been received in London to the effect that the German authorities have established two transit camps known as Oflag XII B ana Oflag XC, which are to be used for prisoners of war transferred from Italy. Where prisoners are known to have been transferred to one of these camps the next-of-kin will be advised by Base Records as to the method of addressing correspondence. A representative of the International Red Cross visited Stalag Luft VI in the middle of September. There were approximately 2000 men In the camp, including 88'New Zealanders. The accommodation was stated to be cramped. The food rations were normal, however, and controlled by the British representative. The clothing was suitable, and the representative distributes various gifts which, the report states, will need to be increased on account of the number of prisoners being transferred to this camp. The medical supplies and surgical instruments were sufficient for the camp needs, and the general state of health was excellent. Religious services were held, and a library and a small orchestra were available, but the accommodation for study courses was Insufficient.