HC Deb 18 April 1918 vol 105 cc563-4
49. Mr. PRINGLE

asked the Prime Minister whether, before the resignation of Major-General Sir Hugh Trenchard was accepted, the differences or policy between General Trenchard and the Air Minister came before the War Cabinet; and whether he can, consistently with the public interest, state the questions of policy upon which a. difference of opinion| arose between the Air Minister and General Trenchard?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and to the last part in the negative.

Mr. PRINGLE

Docs the right hon. Gentleman not realise that great public interest is taken in this matter, find can he not see his way to make a statement which will allay some of the unrest which has arisen?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I realise that there is great public interest in it, but I think the House will see that it is obvious one cannot discuss in public questions of principle of that kind.

Mr. PRINGLE

Is it not the case that the question of principle is one not affecting any war policy, but simply as to the methods of organisation in which the leading expert of the Air Staff had regard to efficiency in the field and the Air Minister had regard to advertising in the Press?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The hon. Member is apparently giving his own version of the difference of opinion. As I have said, in our opinion it is not desirable to discuss the matter by way of question and answer.

Colonel Sir H. VERNEY

Has the right hon. Gentleman any idea of the dismay and disgust in the Air Force in France over this matter?

Mr. BONAR LAW

No. Sir; I think it is obvious that I cannot be expected to give an answer to a question of that kind, which would give rise to difference of opinion.

Mr. HOGGE

As the Government have got rid of the head officers of the Navy, the Army, and the Air Force, can the right hon. Gentleman say how long this practice is to continue of getting rid of competent people?

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider whether it would not be possible to make a statement adding a little more information, which will give no help to the enemy, but might allay feelings which to some extent undoubtedly exist?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am quite ready to consider that, like any other desire on the part of the House to discuss a question. I do not think it is desirable, at all events in question and answer, to discuss a subject of this kind.

Mr. PRINGLE

I beg to give notice that I shall raise this question on the Adjournment to-night.