§ 38. Mr. Granvilleasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the enormous responsibilities involved in decisions on policy in the prosecution of the war, he will consider appointing a small supreme War Cabinet of Ministers without Departmental responsibility and irrespective of party considerations; and whether he will consider inviting statesmen of the calibre of Mr. Menzies to join such a War Cabinet?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir.
§ Mr. GranvilleIs the Prime Minister satisfied that it is still possible for busy 346 and overworked Ministers to run great Departments of State and attend War Cabinet meetings for the purpose of giving vital decisions on war policy? Further, as the whole British Empire is involved in this war, does he not think the time has come to invite Empire statesmen to join an Empire War Cabinet, or an Imperial War Cabinet similar to that established in the last war?
§ The Prime MinisterWe had a Debate about this some time ago, when it was very fully discussed and when I gave a very full explanation to the House. I have nothing to add to that.
§ Sir Henry Morris-JonesIs the Prime Minister himself alone responsible for strategy to the country and to the House?
§ The Prime MinisterIn the statement which I made—I think it was 21½ months ago I gave a very full account of how the machinery of government was run.
§ Mr. GranvilleIs it the intention to call a meeting of the Imperial War Conference?
§ The Prime MinisterAt the present time there is no such intention.