HC Deb 19 May 1938 vol 336 cc574-5
45. Mr. Sandys

asked the Prime Minister whether the present Under-Secretary of State for Air, like his predecessor, is to devote his attention exclusively to matters relating to civil aviation; and, if not, what arrangements it is proposed to make to give effect to the recommendation contained in paragraph 22 of the Cad-man Report?

Sir J. Simon

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative, but the Under-Secretary of State is to devote a considerable amount of his time to civil aviation matters and he will answer questions in the House in relation thereto. As regards the second part of the question, the House will, I think, agree that the new Secretary of State for Air should have time to obtain some practical experience of the working of the present arrangements before it is decided what further measures, if any, are desirable to meet the purpose aimed at by the recommendation contained in paragraph 22 of the Cadman Report.

Mr. Attlee

May I ask whether the Noble Lord the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster is still going to perform any functions in connection with air rearmament?

Sir J. Simon

I think that the arrangements, now that we have the Secretary of State and the Under-Secretary in this House, will be in their hands.

Mr. Herbert Morrison

In that case can the Chancellor say what additional duties the Chancellor of the Duchy is to take on in order that he will have some executive functions?

Mr. Speaker

That does not arise on this question.