asked the Prime Minister to state what steps are being taken to obtain the release or the better treatment of the British prisoners of war in Russia; and how many there are there known to the Government.

The hon. Member for South East Leeds is still at Copenhagen negotiating with a representative of the Soviet Government for the exchange of the British prisoners of war in Russia; as a result of these negotiations a large consignment of warm clothing and medical comforts provided by the British Bed Cross Society and Order of St. John has already been despatched to Moscow, and a further consignment will shortly be leaving Copenhagen.

As regards the second part of the question, I am unable to give the exact figures, as enquiries are at present being made in the case of certain officers and other ranks who have recently been reported to be missing, believed prisoners of war, both in Siberia and South Russia; should it be ascertained that these are prisoners of war, the total would be approximately 150 officers and men of the Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force

Can my hon. Friend say how many men are likely to be released?

I must have notice of that.

It is on the Paper.

I must have further notice of it then, because I have no particulars, and I cannot possibly carry them with me.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is great anxiety among the friends of prisoners in Russia, in view of the negotiations, as to when there is any likelihood of their being released?

I can assure my hon. Friend that that anxiety is shared by every humane person in the country.

What is the obstacle standing in the way of releasing the prisoners?

I should say the difficulty of securing the prisoners from the Government or Governments that now control them.

Can he say whether the Government have done anything at all for the assistance of these prisoners, or whether they have left it entirely to the Bed Cross?

I can assure the Noble Lord that the Government has done everything in its power for the relief of these gallant and unhappy men.

Mr. J. JONES:

Can he tell us whether the rumour is true that is going about, that the reason why the negotiations have broken down, so far as the restoration of our prisoners is concerned, is due to the fact that we cannot account for certain Russian prisoners in the possession of the Allied Governments?

I do not believe there is a word of truth in it, and I have never heard it.

Will he answer a further question on the point of the release of these men if that question is put down for Monday?