54. Sir F. HALLasked the Prime Minister whether, among other avenues of economy in the public service, the Government will consider the possibility, in the interests both of efficiency and economy, of abolishing the present independent organisation of the Royal Air Force; and if he will appoint a special committee, which shall include a proportion of members, unbiased by official interests, to inquire into and report upon the question of effecting economies of administration in this direction?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThis question, together with all other questions affecting possible economies in the fighting services, falls within the scope of the Colwyn Committee.
§ Captain WEDGWOOD BENNDo we understand that the Government have departed from the hitherto settled policy of having an independent Air Force?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo, ihey have departed from no policy at present.
Sir F. HALLIf there is a possibility of increasing efficiency and reducing the cost, would any harm be done by setting up a perfectly independent committee to inquire into this subject?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat question does not arise.
§ The PRIME MINISTERThen I have answered it.