7 MARCH 1931, Page 2

The Red Cross Two international conventions enlarging the scope of

Red Cross work in war-time were laid before Parliament on Monday. They were signed at Geneva in July, 1929, and are now to be ratified. One of them strengthens the Red Cross Convention of 1906 for the aid of the sick and wounded. Belligerent nations are to exchange information regarding wounded prisoners with as little delay as possible, so as to lessen the dreadful anxiety that gnawed at many parents' hearts in the Great War. All hospitals are to be so clearly marked with the Red Cross as to reduce the risk of involuntary attack. The use of hospital aeroplanes is legalized, though this must have its risks. The other convention is a code regulating the treatment of prisoners of war. Its most valu- able provisions are those which give neutral repre- sentatives • a more assured position in respect of prisoners whose country's interests these neutrals are watching. Prisoners are guaranteed the right to com- municate with the neutral diplomatists.