§ 47. Colonel HOWARD-BURYasked the Prime Minister when the Committee of Imperial Defence is likely to report upon the strategic aspects of the Channel Tunnel?
§ 46. Colonel ENGLANDasked the Prime Minister what procedure he intends to follow after the Committee of Imperial Defence have made their Report upon the strategic aspects of the Channel Tunnel?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe inquiry into the military aspects of the Channel Tunnel was taken up as soon as the Report of the Channel Tunnel Committee on the economic aspects was received, and has been continuing ever since. The project, as set forth in the Economic Report, contained a considerable amount of detail that was not available when the question was last reviewed by the Committee of Imperial Defence. It was found necessary to re-examine the whole matter in the light of the latest technical developments, and, to meet the changed conditions, new methods have had to be considered and worked out, both in their military and financial aspects. It would be a profound mistake to scamp this inquiry, only to find afterwards that some essential factor bearing on the final decision had been overlooked. As soon as the recommendations of the Committee of Imperial Defence are available, the whole question in all its aspects will be examined by the Cabinet, after which an announcement of the Government's policy will be made in Parliament.
§ Colonel HOWARD-BURYCan the right hon. Gentleman say how often the Committee of Imperial Defence meet to consider this subject, and when it is expected that they will be able to make their report?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe last part of that question I cannot answer. As regards the first part, the Committee of Imperial Defence meet as soon as possible after there is material available to justify them meeting.
§ Colonel HOWARD-BURYHow often do they meet?
§ The PRIME MINISTERVery irregularly.
§ Colonel HOWARD-BURYWhen did they last meet?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe other day.
§ The PRIME MINISTERYes, but I am not chairman of all the sub-committees.