HC Deb 14 November 1944 vol 404 cc1782-3
39. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that A.T.S. personnel in anti-aircraft batteries are still sleeping under canvas on marshy ground at a place of which he has been informed; and if he will take immediate steps to transfer them to billets or provide hutments.

Sir J. Grigg

I regret that it is necessary for operational reasons for these auxiliaries to be located where they are. Huts are being provided for them as quickly as possible and meanwhile double tentage has been issued to protect them from the weather.

Mr. Driberg

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I visited these gun sites only yesterday afternoon, and it is quite incorrect to say that double tenting has been provided? They are still sleeping under single canvas—and very leaky canvas at that.

Sir J. Grigg

That is not the first time I have been given the lie direct by the hon. Member, and I will investigate that.

Hon. Members

Order.

Sir H. Williams

On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker, Is it proper for the Minister to say that a Private Member has given the lie direct?

Mr. Speaker

I did not hear the Minister's reply.

Sir H. Williams

The Minister said that it was the lie direct. Surely, Private Members are entitled to protection?

Mr. Thorne

Are you aware, Mr. Speaker, that I was expelled once for calling an hon. Member a liar?

Mr. Speaker

That is not a correct expression to use if it was used.

Hon Members

Withdraw.

Sir J. Grigg

I will certainly withdraw it, if it is outside the Rules of Order, but the hon. Member flatly contradicted a statement which I had just made. As he did flatly contradict the statement, which I had made in perfect good faith, I said I would have to investigate it before I could reply.

Mr. Driberg

Further to that point of Order, Mr. Speaker. May I say that I am perfectly prepared to abide by the right hon. Gentleman's investigation of the facts on the spot, which I saw with my own eyes yesterday evening, if he will then come to this House next week and make a further statement?

Sir J. Grigg

I shall be perfectly prepared to tell the hon. Member the result of my investigation.