asked the Secretary of State for War what is th2 average time required to effect compassionate release for German prisoners of war in this country.

About one month elapses between the receipt of nominations by my Department and the arrival of the prisoner of war in Germany.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will make a statement about the make-up of and conditions attaching to the extra post-free parcels he is allowing prisoners of war to sent to Germany this Christmas.

The conditions attaching to the extra post-free parcel for Christmas are the same as those applying to the post-free parcel which a prisoner of war may send once every three months. The contents will be restricted to essential relief items such as rationed soap, toilet articles—other than shaving soap— clothing, medicines or similar articles. The parcel may contain also imperishable rationed food that may have been given to the prisoner of war. The same restrictions on individual items are imposed as in the case of parcels sent to Germany by members of the public.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether toys which prisoners have made for their own children can be included in these parcels.

Yes, Sir.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will rescind the regulation under which P.O.W's. are at present banned from participating in concerts or other entertainments where an admission charge is made and where money is to be raised for some charitable, religious or relief objective.

No, Sir. It would not be fair for prisoners of war to entertain as artistes in direct competition with British civilians.