OFFICERS’ FATE

Waikato Times, Volume 194, Issue 22353, 20 May 1944, Page 6

OFFICERS’ FATE

SHOT WHILE ESCAPING PRISONERS IN GERMANY •‘BRITAIN ASKS FOR REPORT (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) LONDON, May 19 The Germans shot 47 officers of the R.A.F., Dominion and Allied Air Forces while they were attempting to escape from a prisoner-of-war camp in Germany. This was announced by the Foreign Secretary, Mr Anthony Eden, in the House of Commons today. Mr Eden said that on April 17 the Germans told a representative of the protecting Power, Switzerland, that 76 officers escaped from Stalag Luft 111 near Dresden on March 22. Fifteen were recaptured, 14 were still at large and 47 were shot The Germans said some were shot while resisting arrest and some while trying to escape again after being captured. The British Government, said Mr Eden, was profoundly shocked by the news and he paid tribute to the courage of these officers and their high sense of military duty. The Government had asked for an immediate report on all the circumstances and for an explanation of the German Government’s failure to report the matter at once to the protecting Power. Mr Eden added that the next-of-kin had already been informed. German Government Responsible Mr Eden said that all the names of the officers shot were furnished to the representative of the protecting Power on the occasion of his visit. Next-of-kin had been informed. Sir Percy Harris (Liberal) asked Mr Eden if he would make it clear that the German Government itself was responsible for all the breaches of international law Mr FiClen replied: “Tnat is certainly the Jposition,” and added: “I sent a telegram some days ago to the protecting Power asking them to make full investigation. I would rather say no more until I get a reply.” For Squadron - Leader Roger Bush ell, one of the victims, who in peacetime was a London barrister and Hendon air pageant acrobatic pilot, it was the third attempt at escape. Squadron-Leader Bushell the first time get within a few yards of the Swiss frontier. The second time he was free for eight months, when it is believed that he reached Czechoslovakia before being recaptured.