asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the special centre to deal with inquiries from relatives of prisoners of war in the Far East has been set up.

Yes, Sir. The Government have now opened such a bureau. It is called the Prisoner of War (Far East) Inquiry Centre and is situated at Curzon Street House, Curzon Street, London, W.I. As stated in my reply to my hon. Friend of 26th April, it will deal particularly with inquiries from relatives of prisoners of war in the Far East who are uncertain which Department to approach. A handbook for the information of relatives and friends of prisoners of war and interned civilians in the Far East is in course of preparation and copies, when printed, will be placed in the Library of the House. Copies of the handbook will be supplied free to each recorded next-of-kin and it will also be on sale to the public.

Can my right hon. Friend give any indication when they are likely to be available?

I think very soon indeed.