Stalag VIIIB

Camp Commander

Security Officer

Accompanying Officer

Senior British Medical Officer

Chief British Man of Confidence

: Kapitän Gylek

: Major Birkhoff

: Hauptmann Schade

: Major G.F. Eagle, SAMC

: R.S.M. F. Reid, POW No. 19.

No change since our last visit of February 15th, 1944. The mixture of nationalities continues (vide our last report) but according to the man of confidence this is only a minor point now as this base camp spends all its time "fighting battles for the mines".

The total number of British prisoners of war in the area of Stalag VIII B is now 12 437 and the number of working detachments has increased from 53 to 62. On commandos altogether 11 964 prisoners of war are working.

For the base camp Teschen the following figures were given: 724 prisoners of war in camp, of whom 20 in the revier.

No change and no complaint. At the moment there is a stock of Red Cross parcels for 3 weeks only.

The former British senior medical officer, Major A.W. Woolley, has left and is now in charge of the new lazaret at Tost (see report thereon of June 16th, 1944) and his place is taken by Major G.F. Eagle, SAMC. The latter reports that conditions at this lazaret show no material change as regards buildings and mixture of nationalities since our last visit. At the moment there are 20 British patients in the revier, none of them serious cases.

Major Eagle has made a request for an additional British medical officer, but received no satisfactory reply from the Germans. However, on discussing this point with the camp commander the delegate of the Protecting Power was informed that two doctors were to arrive very shortly. (At the moment there are only two British doctors in this camp, excluding Major Eagle). Otherwise and as far as daily routine work is concerned the situation is satisfactory.

The clothing position is satisfactory as far as the base camp is concerned and the commandos are stated to be fairly well supplied (for details see reports thereon). According to the man of confidence the provision of working clothes on commandos remain a sore point, in spite of the fact that he is given all possible support from this end. Owing to the shortage of leather, boots on working detachments are now fitted with wooden soles, a measure very much disliked by the men.

There are still two British chaplains here. The recent order of the O.K.W., whereby British chaplains may visit working detachments only on condition they return to the base camp at night, is naturally meeting with the utmost disapproval. It means that a great number of detachments cannot be visited any longer be it because these are too far away from the base camp or railway communications being bad. The matter will therefore be discussed with the OKW.

A request was put to the delegate of the Protecting Power for a Union Jack from the YMCA. The Protecting Power will transmit this wish.

Representatives of the YMCA have called twice here but no visit has ever been paid to this camp by the Red Cross. The man of confidence would particularly welcome a representative of the Red Cross, as he has many matters to discuss. The Protecting Power will inform the Red Cross of this wish.

The following complaints, already reported on the occasion of our last visit, were brought up again:

This camp remains merely an administrative center and as such is satisfactory. As the man of confidence pointed out, the main work done here is for the commandos. No doubt, he is well acquainted with conditions on commandos and is able to gather any amount of information when paying visits to working detachments. This he is able to do as often as he desires.

This command was last visited on February 10th, 1944; its strength has further increased from 403 to 597 British POWs, resulting in the camp now being seriously overcrowded. As the situation in other respects - most of the complaints mentioned in our last reports being again put to the Delegate of the Protecting Power with a number of new ones - has not improved, conditions in this detachment have become most unsatisfactory. The main points giving cause for complaints today are:

1) Overcrowding. Owing to it, the barrack rooms cannot be kept in a state of tidiness and order as is desirable, lockers are lacking in adequate numbers and many men have no place to put their kits. Cleaning materials are also lacking, such as brooms, brushes, soap etc.

3) Medical attention and treatment in the hands of a woman doctor is still as unsatisfactory as ever.

Other complaints reported concerned: Insufficient size of recreation room. No barber. Inadequate arrangements for clothes-washing. Unwillingness of the civilian mine director to do anything for the POWs.

The Delegate of the Protecting Power immediately demanded an interview with both, the mine-director and the woman doctor employed by the mine, expressing his utmost dissatisfaction at the existing conditions and demanding the improvements necessary to re-establish a bearable situation in the camp. As a result of this, the construction of a new latrine with 40 seats was definitely promised, new cleaning materials were said to have just arrived, a barber from Stalag is to be sent here and it was definitely promised that one or two other matters shall be put right. As to the woman doctor, no satisfactory result could be achieved. When later discussing this matter with the German officers it was therefore decided to make an application to the Stalag for her being eliminated. In future either a British doctor being sent here or the POWs being treated by a German military doctor.

There can be no doubt that the Germans realized the bad impression which the Delegate of the Protecting Power had gained by his visit to this detachment and his firm intention to return here at the earlier possible moment. Should there be no improvements on the occasion of our next visit to this detachment, the Protecting Power will request the OKW to move the POWs from this commando.

The Delegate of the Protecting Power also made a special point in mentioning conditions in this detachment to the General when calling on him and was assured that particular note of the Delegate's request had been taken.

As to the working conditions in this detachment, no complaint was put forward. These have not changed.

It is regrettable that this commando, formerly one of the best in the mining area, should now be one of the least satisfactory.

41 British POWs, working for the same firm as the above commando but enjoying generally better living conditions as their comrades of detachment E 72. There were no complaints regarding working conditions; a few minor complaints concerning the camp could be settled on the spot.

115 British POWs, last visited on October 12th, 1943. As to working conditions, there has been little change, there are still 3 shifts of 8 hours each daily. The Man of Confidence reports that there are less accidents now, the men having got used to the work to a certain extent and being more careful, although for some of the POWs mining remains an arduous task and in this detachment, for instance, some men are unable to complete their daily shift in 8 hours and are required to remain behind until such is done, often meaning 9 to 10 hours work daily. This point was discussed with the Germans who state that only 3 to 4 men are concerned out of 115 and that it is up to them to finish at the same time as the others. Altogether 69 men work below.

Regarding Sunday-work it is reported that as a rule one Sunday only per month is free and to obtain it, extra shifts during the week have to be put in by the men. The Delegate of the Protecting Power protested against this and the German control officer gave definite orders for every third Sunday to be free (as against every fourth at present).

Regarding conditions in the camp itself, the following complaints were put forward:

1) The football field promised on the occasion of our last visit is still not included into the compound. The matter again was discussed with the Germans who assured the Delegate that the question would be re-examined.

2) Latrines are not emptied often enough. A definite promise was given that in future there shall be no complaint in this respect.

3) No rubber boots have been given out nor any other proper protective clothing. The situation is therefore exactly the same as on the last visit in October 1943. The Germans declare that the POWs are treated the same as the civilian workers in this respect and are not provided with working clothes unless the civilian workers receive them for the same work. There can be no doubt that the Germans are experiencing the greatest difficulties in supplying protective clothing of any type.

4) The boiler promised more than six months ago has still not arrived and the matter was again mentioned to the Germans.

Otherwise, the camp makes a good impression, the barrack rooms are no longer overcrowded and the compound is as pleasant as can be expected in an industrial region.

I) This is a new commando and was formed on May 4th 1944. The compound is situated on the premises of an old factory, but, as a temporary arrangement only until a new barrack-camp now being constructed is completed. The POWs will then be transferred there. According to the Germans, the new camp will be ready in about 2 1/2 months. The present accommodation is not satisfactory in every respect though on the whole it is bearable for the time being.

II. 194 British POWs, engaged on constructional work (building, digging, pick and shovel), most men do piece work of about 6 hours daily and the remainder work 10 hours per day. Every second Sunday is free. On Saturdays preceding the free Sunday the men stop work at 2pm.

III. There are several small and one very large room furnished in the usual manner; the rooms are quite in order except that at present no lockers are provided and consequently the men's kit and food items are generally scattered, conveying an impression of untidiness. As against this the Germans explain that their attention was now directed towards completing the new camp as quickly as possible rather than install additional furniture in the present camp. Each POW has two German blankets.

IV. There is running cold water in a well-equipped wash-room. Every POW has a hot bath once a week and more frequently if he is employed on dirty work.

V. The POWs have at their disposal six W.Cs. Apart from the fact that this number is insufficient for the present strength of the camp, the Man of Confidence complains that the German women who do the cooking are using a latrine next to these allotted to the POWs, considered as an unnecessary strain on the men. The Germans told the Delegate of the Protecting Power that another solution could not be found and that so far no incidents had occurred. The Delegate of the Protecting Power expressed his disapproval and stressed the importance of the new camp being completed as soon as possible.

VI. Food is cooked by German women and stated to be good. The correct rations are being received. There is a stock of Red Cross food parcels for about 5 1/2 weeks. Facilities for private cooking are limited as there is only one small range. Here again the Germans refer to the new camp, where adequate arrangements for individual cooking shall be available.

VII. There is a small revier with 4 beds. On the day of visit there were no obvious cases. Medical attention and dental treatment by a German civilian doctor are stated to be satisfactory. Drugs and medicaments are mostly supplied by the British Red Cross, but there are some German supplies. Sick parade is held every day. Two British (recognized) sanitators are in charge of the revier.

VIII. Every POW has one complete British outfit (uniform and underclothing). There is no stock of clothing whatsoever. Socks in particular are very short. So far the firm has not supplied any working overalls but when discussing the matter with the Germans, the Delegate of the Protecting Power was informed of 80 working suits having just arrived.

XIII. OUTDOOR: According to the men, they are getting plenty of football. No complaint. INDOOR: Playing cards and musical instruments from the YMCA would be greatly welcomed. The Protecting Power will transmit these requests to the YMCA.

XIV. Letters from home are bad but parcels good. (This is general and applies to all commandos).

XVI. 1) It is reported that the firm has never issued an adequate number of eating utensils, such as knives, forks and spoons. The Delegate of the Protecting Power requested the Germans to investigate and put the matter right. This was promised.

2) The area of the compound is far too small for a camp of this size, though nothing can be done about it as an extension is impossible.

XVII. Knowing that a new camp is being constructed for them, the POWs somehow appear unable to settle down in the present camp. It is to be hoped that the new camp will be ready on the date given by the Germans. Otherwise conditions in this detachment are fairly satisfactory, at any rate the working conditions give no cause for any complaints.

I. This is a new camp and on the occasion of our visit partly still in course of construction. The POWs were transferred here on April 9th, 1944. The compound is situated in the neighbourhood of large industrial plants; according to the German camp authorities, it is their intention to create a "Show-camp" here. The beginnings certainly are very promising, the barracks already completed and occupied are of the excellent modern type, the lay-out of the camp is will planned and when completed should be satisfactory in every way.

II. 537 British POWs, engaged on construction and building work. Daily working hours vary, those on task-work do 6 to 8 hours, the others 10 1/2 hours (minority). Every second Sunday is free. Generally speaking the working conditions are quite satisfactory.

III. As pointed out above, the barracks are of the modern type. The rooms are spacious and not overcrowded. There are double tier beds with two German blankets each. No complaint regarding the accommodation.

IV. Good. There is running water. A well equipped shower-barrack is in course of construction and almost completed.

VI. Food is cooked in a special kitchen-barrack by the POWs themselves who have full control of rations etc. The stock of Red Cross food parcels amounts to 2376 or a supply for just over one month. Facilities for private cooking are also satisfactory.

VII. Capt. J.A. McLeod is in charge of the medical attention. Patients are accommodated in a special block where there is pleasant ward with 14 beds apart from two other rooms, one of which serves as consulting room and the other as treating-room. On the day of visit there were 4 patients in the revier, none of them serious cases. According to Capt. McLeod there is a satisfactory supply of drugs and medicaments on hand from both, Red Cross and German sources. Regarding dental treatment there was no complaint. Dr. McLeod stated that although he was always given plenty of opportunity for walks, some of his sanitators did not. The point was brought to the knowledge of the Germans who promised that the matter will be put right. Some of the neighbouring British working detachments are regularly visited by Capt. McLeod, this particularly concerns detachments No. E 727, E 88 and E 494. The general state of health is described as excellent.

VIII. Every POW has one British outfit. There is only a small stock of British clothing. The surprising feature in this camp is certainly the fact that every POW has been provided with an overall to work in.

XII. A POW recognized by the YMCA as a padre is living in this camp and holds regular services.

XIII. So far no satisfactory arrangements regarding outdoor sports, specially football, could be made; it appears difficult to find a suitable piece of ground in this region. However, the Germans promised to do their very best in finding a solution at the earlier moment. Regarding indoor entertainment, the situation will be very satisfactory as soon as the theatre now under construction is completed. Otherwise there are plenty of games, books, musical instruments etc.

XVII. There is every reason to believe that once completed this will be an excellent camp.

I. This is a well constructed barrack camp situated next to a railway line in the industrial region of Upper Silesia. The POWs were transferred here on December 12th, 1943.

II. 193 British POWs in camp and four men in hospital at Kattowitz. The men are working on the railway line from 6 to 8 hours daily. On Saturday work stops at 1 p.m. Sundays as a rule are free. No complaint regarding working conditions.

IV. Washing facilities as such are satisfactory. At the moment, the hot water tank is out of order and the men are held up for showers, however, at present, they manage with cold showers until the necessary repairs have been carried out.

VI. Food is cooked by the POWs themselves. No complaint. There is a stock of Red Cross food parcels for 9 weeks. The kitchen barrack is well equipped.

VII. There are two recognized sanitators in charge of the small revier (5 beds), confirming that medical attention and dental treatment are satisfactory. Any POW reporting sick is allowed to visit the German military doctor. A monthly issue of Red Cross medical supplies is being regularly received from the Red Cross center at Sosnowitz together with some German supplies as well. On the day of visit there was one POW patient in the revier. Every 14 days, a British medical officer pays a visit to this camp.

VIII. Some men have two complete British outfits although the majority possesses only one; for the men on very dirty work, overalls have been supplied by the Reichsbahn. There are no stocks of clothing in the camp.

XI. Small supplies of canteen goods are regularly received from Teschen. Now and then the Reichsbahn provides different items.

XII. The British padre stationed at Teschen has paid a visit to this camp some time ago.

XIII. OUTDOOR: There is no possibility to play football or soccer on any ground outside the camp and the men must make do with the space inside the compound area which is of fair size. INDOOR: There is a nice little theatre and good supplies of books, games and musical instruments.

XVI. There were no serious complaints. A number of points put forward by the POWs could be settled satisfactorily with the Germans.

This party was last visited on February 11th, 1944 when there were no serious complaints as far as the camp is concerned but rather important ones regarding work and working conditions. From our report on the visit referred to above, it will be noted that the Delegate of the Protecting Power paid special attention to this detachment then, conferring at great length with the German military authorities and the directors of the firm.

Upon paying a visit to this commando on the date shown above, the following facts were established:

After our strong intervention on the occasion of our last visit, conditions thereafter improved. Actual working hours now are from 9 to 9 1/2 daily, during which time the POWs are required to fulfil a certain task, meaning, as the NCO in charge of the party expressed himself, very hard work indeed. On the other hand, according to the Germans, the POWs are stated to work 10% less than the Poles employed underneath, whose output again falls below that of the German miner. Therefore, it would appear that conditions have definitely improved. Surprisingly enough this is not the view taken by the British NCO in charge of the party who maintains that conditions are as bad as ever. He seems, however, a person easily excitable and somewhat biased in his judgement of the situation, though it must be admitted that for a considerable length of time, the working conditions in this detachment were anything but pleasing, creating a lot of bad feeling among the men and an impression now difficult to efface. Indeed, in spite of the fact that he is given every facility to discuss current problems with the new mine-director (who makes a very good impression) at a weekly conference, he retains his negative attitude, unwilling to admit that any charge for the better has taken place.

Regarding Sunday-work, the situation has also improved in that of late every second one has been free. This is obviously not an ideal state of affairs and in no way corresponds with the provisions of the Geneva Convention, but it is certainly an improvement on the situation found when last visiting this camp.

Capt. E.L. Riemer, POW No. 1898, SAMC, British medical officer stationed at a neighbouring commando, happened to call on this detachment at the time of the visit of the Delegate of the Protecting Power and confirmed that since our last call there had been no fatal accidents in the mine and not more than the usual number of injuries etc.

The Germans are of the opinion that if some of the dissatisfied POWs in the camp were exchanged, the general atmosphere would improve. This may well be so, at any rate in the interest of all POWs of this detachment; the Delegate of the Protecting Power did not advise against such an exchange.

I. This camp has never been visited before, although the men have been here since August 1942. But reports from this detachment have always been excellent, so that in the past, the time at the disposal of the Delegate of the Protecting Power was devoted to less favoured commandos. E 587 is a well laid out camp of modern barracks and a fairly large compound area.

II. 297 British POWs, working in the Paul-and-Julie-Gruben (coal-mines). There are two shifts; the day-shift from 6 am till 2 pm and the night shift from 2 pm till 11 pm. Every other Sunday is free. Working conditions are stated to be satisfactory. No complaint.

III. As stated above, the barracks are modern with satisfactory interior arrangements.

IV. Washing facilities are excellent. The men have daily hot showers at the mine.

VI. POWs cook their own food and have a well equipped kitchen at their disposal. The correct rations are being received regularly and there is a large stock of Red Cross food parcels. No complaint.

VII. Medical attention and dental treatment are stated to be good; a British medical officer, Capt. E.L. Riemer, SAMC, calls twice weekly and if necessary, POWs can see the mine-doctor as well. For dental treatment, the men go to Sosnowitz. There is a spacious revier with 10 beds in charge of two British sanitators.

VIII. The clothing position was stated to be quite satisfactory; as far as British uniforms and working clothes for the miners are concerned.

XI. Canteen goods are either bought locally (or what there is!) or ordered from Teschen.

XII. The British padre of the base camp (Teschen) has called twice here since the detachment has been formed.

XIII. Excellent arrangements have been made for sports; the men are allowed to play football outside the camp daily, although there is adequate space for playing football inside the compound. For indoor entertainments there is a large hall available any time and the men have all they require for staging shows.

XIV. "Letters from home are bad, but parcels good", was the answer of the Man of Confidence.

XVI. The Man of Confidence stated that he had "no real complaints" at all, in spite of the fact that he had indeed tried to find some.

I. This detachment was formed in September 1943 and was transferred from the original camp to the present new one on May 26th, 1944. The compound is situated on the outskirts of an enormous new industrial area, part of which is still in course of construction.

II. 643 British POWs engaged on constructional work of all types for the I.G. Farben-Industrie and its various sub-contractors. The men work 10 hours daily but according to the Man of Confidence it is not hard work. Every second Sunday is free. There was no complaint regarding work or working conditions.

III. The camp as such is modern and well constructed and the compound area is rather extensive. Barrack-rooms are adequate in every way and there is no overcrowding. There are special barracks for the revier, Red Cross stores, administrative-center, camp work-shops (cobbler, tailor, barbers etc.)

IV. There is running hot and cold water all day and the men have showers as often as they please.

V. As such, the latrines (pit-type) are adequate but at the moment not yet sufficient in number. However, a definite promise was given that more seats will be built very shortly.

VI. Food is cooked outside the camp by Germans and described as "fair". No complaint. Facilities inside the camp for the cooking of private food are good. There is a stock of Red Cross parcels for about 4 weeks. It was pointed out by the British medical officer that the drinking water was unfit for consumption at times and that he had advised his men accordingly. When discussing this point with the Germans, the statement of the British doctor was confirmed. However, nothing can be done about it at the moment.

VII. There is a pleasant revier with 16 beds. On the day of visit there were 14 bed patients and 51 ambulant cases. Sick parade as a rule in attended by 10% of the camp's strength. At the moment, Capt. Harrison is perfectly alright for drugs and medicaments; from the Germans a good deal is being received. The general state of health is satisfactory. Less so are, at present, the arrangements for dental treatment, particularly regarding dentures (still being done at busy Lamsdorf). However, it is hoped that the dental station at R/L Tost will relieve the pressure on Lamsdorf and shorten the long waiting list.

VIII. Some men have one and some two British uniforms, but many of these are in very bad condition. There is no stock in the camp. From the Germans large supplies of underclothing have been received. Regarding overalls it was reported that many men employed on dirty work have not yet been provided with protective clothing. The matter was discussed with the Germans, who explained that many of the sub-contractors of the I.G. Farben had not yet been able to procure such clothing but a representative of the latter promised to take the matter in hand. The boot situation is becoming rather serious, particularly as far as repair material is concerned.

XIII. OUTDOOR: The POWs are allowed to play football outside the camp whenever they ask for it and if the Germans have the guards available. So far no complaints. At the time of the visit of the Delegate of the Protecting Power, a game of tennis was in progress on a hard court which the POWs have built themselves. INDOOR: Arrangements have been made for the use of a theatre barrack inside the compound. POWs would be very grateful for more books and musical instruments from the YMCA and the Delegate of the Protecting Power promised to transmit their wishes to what welfare organization.

XIV. Here too it was stated that the letters from home were very slow in arriving, while as the reverse applies to private parcels. Mail from Germany to South Africa was also stated to take a very long time while in the opposite direction, the position is satisfactory.

XV. Representatives of the YMCA have paid a visit to this detachment some time ago.

XVI. There were no complaints of importance and the few matters which required settling and were put to the Delegate of the Protecting Power could be dealt with on the spot with the German authorities.

This detachment was last visited on February 11th, 1944. There is no change in the accommodation but the POWs are expecting to move to a new camp nearby in about two weeks.

Regarding work and working conditions, the Man of Confidence confirmed that there had been further great improvements since our last visit and that particularly complaints 1) and 2) in our last report had been dealt with. As an example regarding complaint 1), it was pointed out that since March 10th, 1944 till June 19th, 1944, the POWs had been required to do 14 hours extra work all told while the civilian miners are asked to work overtime almost continuously. As to complaint 2) in our last report, the Man of Confidence stated that there had been no incidents of any importance since our last visit.

Without a doubt, the situation in this detachment has improved in no small way in the course of the last 6 and particularly the last 3 months. The British Man of Confidence attends a weekly conference with the director of the mine when current problems are discussed, so that today, the former is able to report satisfactory working conditions in every way. (The actual working time today amounts to 8 3/4 hours).

The situation regarding working boots reported on the occasion of our last visit has, on the other hand, remained the same and was again discussed with the Germans who state that what can be done is being done.

I. This is a new camp and has never been visited before. The POWs arrived here on February 17th, 1944 and at the time of the visit of the Delegate of the Protecting Power, constructional work inside the compound was about being completed. It appears that the site chosen for the camp was rather swampy and delayed the construction of the camp considerably. Barracks are of the modern stone-built type, each barrack-room accommodates 10 POWs. The compound area is of fair size, includes a vegetable garden and many flower beds. Once completed, this camp should materially be a good one.

II. 456 POWs, mostly South Africans and also including about 35 Frenchmen captured in Tunis. With the exception of 40 men all work in a nearby mine (Casimir-mine) 8 3/4 hours daily. As a rule, every 3rd Sunday is free. Regarding work, there was no complaint.

III. As mentioned above, the barracks are newly constructed and satisfactory in every way.

IV. There is running cold water for washing. Hot showers can be had as often as the men wish at the mine.

VI. POWs have their own cooks and a well equipped modern kitchen. Facilities for private cooking are excellent and there was no complaint about food at all. At the time of visit there was a stock of Red Cross food parcels for 3 weeks.

VII. There is a British medical officer in the camp and 3 British medical orderlies. A revier is at their disposal and the medical attention can be considered as adequate. Dental attention at a nearby German Dentist's, satisfactory. General health condition in the detachment is generally good.

VIII. Every man has one good British uniform; a few possess two. Since personal clothing parcels are arriving well from home, the clothing situation has improved and there is no serious shortage. However, regarding working clothes, it was reported that although an initial issue had been made, replacements were most difficult. The question was discussed with the Germans who stated that more overalls had been received and would be given out where required.

XI. Canteen goods are received mostly from Teschen. The Man of Confidence reports that the beer-supply is insufficient but the Germans promised to order more in future.

XII. Up to the present time, no padre has called here from Stalag but one of the POWs holds services every Sunday.

XIII. OUTDOOR: Football is played four times every week. No complaint. INDOOR: There is a pleasant recreation room at the one end of which a stage is to be constructed, although till now there are no signs that it will be done soon. The Delegate of the Protecting Power discussed this point with the Germans who promised definitely that the matter shall be seen to at once. Games etc. have been received from Teschen.

XVI. There were no serious complaints. The Man of Confidence however pointed out that so far no arrangements had been made for any kind of ARP. The Germans replied that trenches will be dug as soon as the constructional work within the compound area is completed.

XVII. This should prove to be a good future commando. At present, at any rate, there are no serious difficulties.

I. This is the first visit of the Protecting Power to this detachment. The camp is situated next to the mine where the POWs are working. It is a barrack-camp and as such gives no reason for complaint; there is a fairly large compound area.

II. At present 250 POWs, but the strength is to be increased to 412 POWs very shortly. Regarding work and working conditions in the mine, the Man of Confidence stated that "on paper" the men are required to do 8 3/4 hours daily but that in reality, the men were away from the camp much longer, of late sometimes over 10 hours a day. He confirmed that the civilian workers are working exactly the same hours. The length of working hours was discussed with the Germans, the mine director stating that this month, longer hours had to be put in to ensure the same output during the preceding month and that unfortunately conditions down below were less favourable and the work difficult just now. Recently, every second Sunday has been free for the men.

III. There was no complaint regarding the interior arrangements of the barracks. These are pleasant and there is plenty of room. Upon inquiring as to where the new men were to be billeted, the Germans confirmed that there would be no overcrowding as plenty of room was still available in a large barrack as yet unoccupied as well as in other barracks. (This matter will be checked on the occasion of our next visit).

IV. Washing facilities in the barracks are satisfactory. Hot showers at the pit; the Man of Confidence expressed the fear that the shower arrangements at the factory will prove insufficient if the new men arrive. The Delegate of the Protecting Power requested the Germans to keep this matter in mind. He was told that the shower-room had already been enlarged and that there were now 40 showers.

VI. Regarding food there was no complaint at all; the POWs do their own cooking and are able to prepare the food according to their taste.

VII. The British doctor from the neighbouring commando (E 744) calls here twice a week, also the men can visit the mine doctor if need arises or so desire. There is a revier with 10 beds, at the moment in charge of three men acting as sanitators. The Man of Confidence expressed the wish for these three men being exchanged for a single but qualified sanitator. His request is being dealt with at the Stalag. Regarding dental treatment, the position is not so satisfactory as it might be for the men on the morning-and midday-shift; they find it difficult to see the dentist during the day, as according to mine authorities, they must not do so during working hours but wait for a change of shift, i.e., the night-shift, as only then are the men free during the day. The Delegate of the Protecting Power requested the Germans to take up a liberal attitude in this matter and allow a POW to see the dentist at once if necessary. This was promised.

VIII. About 100 men have only one, the others two complete British suits. Working clothes have been supplied by the firm. Although the mine has bought a sewing-machine for the camp tailor, it cannot be used as an important part is missing at the moment. When mentioning this matter, it was promised that all shall be done to find such a part at the earlier possible moment; apparently this is not so easy today.

XI. The Man of Confidence is allowed to shop in town, also Teschen supplies some canteen goods.

XIII. OUTDOOR: There is a small football ground next to the camp where the men can play frequently. At the moment, the field concerned is none too large and will certainly be too small once the camp is at full strength. The Germans were asked to keep this point in mind. INDOOR: There is a nice theatre with a good stage. No complaint regarding indoor entertainments.

XIV. At the moment, letters are bad and parcels good; the same as in all other camps recently visited.

XVI. 3 POWs, marked for return to the Stalag by the German military doctor are still in this camp. The Germans promised to take the matter in hand. Otherwise, apart from working conditions, there were no complaints. All the same, this detachment will be visited again as soon as possible.

This party has existed since February 1943 and was never visited before. The prisoners work in a coal mine, all of them down in the pit loading coal wagons. The actual working hours are 9 hours a day, about once a week the men have to do 2 hours extra work, if the amount of wagons required have not been done. Every second Sunday is free. Pay regular, the minimum is 70 Pf. per day, most men earn more. The ordinary conditions down in the mine are not too good, the mine is damp, however those men who have to work on wet ground are supplied with rubber boots from the mine. All POWs receive working clothes from the firm. The work does not seem to be too hard and the men have no complaint about it.

The camp is situated near the mine in the woods. It is the most easterly mine in Upper-Silesia quite near the border of the General Government and about 40 km. west of Krakau in the agricultural part in which there are only very few mines. The camp compound is of quite good size and comprises three large wooden barracks of the usual type in which there are the mens' sleeping rooms, a small revier and two single rooms for the man of confidence and the sanitators. There are at present 16 to 18 men in a room, not all beds are occupied (double tier type) as there is accommodation for 130 men. The rooms are of good size, very airy and most pleasant. Each man has a cupboard in the room to store his clothes and private belongings.

So far only one third of the windows and shutters on each side of the rooms is kept open at night. Although this ventilation is quite sufficient in colder weather, it is not enough for the hot summer nights. The German authorities have promised to make better arrangements as soon as the nights get warmer.

Washing facilities are installed in a very large room and are very good. Actually, the size of this room is far too big, so that the men have asked to have part of it cut off by a partition and make a recreation room of the rest in connection with a smaller room adjoining the washing room. Moreover they have asked for two cold showers to be put into the washing room, for which there remains still sufficient room. This has apparently been granted by the German authorities and they have promised the Delegate to have it done within a fortnight. The POWs can have a hot shower daily at the mine.

Food is cooked by civilians (Poles) outside the camp and it is said to be good in the whole. Private cooking facilities are adequate. There is a stock of Red Cross food parcels for about 2 weeks.

There are 2 recognized sanitators to give the necessary medical attention in the revier for minor illnesses and minor accidents. There are 5 beds in the revier. If necessary, the men can see the Polish Doctor who is attached to the mine every day; he is said to be very good. He is allowed to see the men in the camp in case of a serious illness. The British doctor, Capt. Seaford visits the camp about twice a month. So far there have been only minor accidents. Serious cases which cannot be treated at the revier are being sent at once to Kattowitz hospital. The average number of men out of work is about 9. The state of health of the men is very good.

Dental treatment is also very satisfactory. The men can go to see a civilian dentist twice a week at a distance of 3 km.

Clothing situation is satisfactory. Each man has two uniforms. The firm supplies working kits and rubber boots but no socks. The firm has been approached and they promised the issue of special footrags in lieu of socks, since socks are impossible to get.

The laundry is being done by Polish women outside and seems to be satisfactory. Soap and soap powder is being issued by the firm.

There is no canteen in the camp. The men get beer occasionally. The man of confidence is allowed to go to the Stalag at Teschen about once a month, where is can get some of the most necessary things, such as matches.

A padre visits this camp from time to time, and between his visits one of the men is giving religious service.

There are quite good sports facilities in the camp, such as volley and handball. A very nice football ground at a distance of about 3 km. is being put at the disposal of the men shortly; the men are supposed to be starting playing football in about a weeks time. They are also allowed to go swimming in a nearby pool any time they like. As soon as the recreation room is being built, the men will feel quite happy. Although they have no indoor games at present, they have already a table tennis set in use and they also have enough playing cards. They are also sufficiently supplied with musical instruments. The men's request for indoor games is being transmitted to the YMCA.

Mail is poor of late, private parcels very good. The mean realize the difficulties with letters arriving due to the temporarily suspension of air mail from England.

This camp can be considered good; the men seem to be very happy and have no complaint besides a few minor ones which had been dealt with at the time of the Delegate's visit.

It will be noted from the aforegoing reports that in most of the commandos visited working conditions have slowly improved and in many detachments give no longer cause for any serious complaints. Excessively long working hours were no longer reported and in many detachments, two free Sundays a month at least are now the rule. Generally speaking, extra hours (overtime) are only demanded if civilian workers are required to do the same. To quote an example, in detachment E 538, Sosnowitz, civilian miners do extra hours almost every day, while POWs in the course of 3 months put in 14 hours of extra work.

Although there are still a number of complaints regarding medical attention, particularly as far as the grading of the men (whether fit or unfit for work in the mine) is concerned, the situation in this respect has definitely improved too. Less injuries and accidents are reported and generally speaking the state of health is good.

More British medical officers are now posted on commandos than previously and the new lazaret at Tost promises all the facilities for good hospital treatment and care.

No doubt, the General commanding POWs in the Wehrkreis VIII is responsible for a great many of the improvements and it is gratifying to see the practical results now of so many a discussion which the Delegate of the Protecting Power has had with him in the past.

Following points mentioned report certain detachments Stalag VIIIB visited 19th to 21st June:

E 72 Beuthen 597 prisoners, serious overcrowding, toilets totally inadequate, medical attention by woman doctor still unsatisfactory, recreation room too small, no barber, inadequate laundry arrangements, Mine director unwilling to do anything for prisoners, Swiss representative made necessary representations and if no improvement on next visit will request removal prisoners.

E 209 Bobrek 115 prisoners some of whom unable complete daily shift in 8 hours must work 9 to 10 hours daily one Sunday free monthly to obtain which extra shifts must be worked during week, Swiss representative protested, football field still not included in compound, latrines not emptied often enough, no issue proper protective clothing, boiler promised six months ago still unsupplied.

E.724 Schwientochlowitz 194 prisoners constructional work 6 to 10 hours daily every second Sunday free, temporary accommodation pending construction new barracks unsatisfactory, toilets and facilities private cooking eating utensils insufficient.

746 Koenigshuette 537 prisoners constructional work 6 to 10 hours daily every second Sunday free, inadequate facilities outdoor sports.

E. 734 Schopponitz 197 prisoners railway work 6 to 8 hours daily no serious complaints.

E 580 Czeladz 211 prisoners mining 9½ hours daily every second Sunday free working conditions improved, detachment will be revisited first opportunity.

E 587 Czeladz 297 prisoners mining 8 to 9 hours daily every other Sunday free satisfactory.

E 715 Auschwitz situated outskirts enormous new industrial area 643 prisoners constructional work for I.G. Farben 10 hours daily every second Sunday free, water undrinkable.

E 744 Casimir Grube 456 prisoners mostly South Africans mining 8¾ hours daily every third Sunday free no A.R.P.

E 702 Klimonton 250 prisoners will be increased to 412 away from camp sometimes 10 hours daily every second Sunday free.

E 565 Siersza Wodna 115 prisoners loading coal wagons 9 hours daily two hours extra weekly if necessary every second Sunday free.

Swiss representative states in majority detachments working conditions slowly improved although number complaints regarding medical attention, particularly in ascertaining whether men fit for minework, less injuries and accidents reported, more British MOs at detachments and new Tost Lazaret (my telegram 3545) promises good facilities.

Report on Stalag VIII B visited 17th June states total number British this area 12,437 including 11,964 in 62 detachments main camp satisfactory.