§ 26. Mr. THORNEasked the Prime Minister, the composition of the Committee of Imperial Defence; whether on a change of office or a change of appointment in Government Departments the office becomes vacant; and how the positions are filled.
§ The PRIME MINISTERIn constitutional theory the Committee of Imperial Defence consists of the Prime Minister and such persons as he chooses to ask to assist in the Committee's deliberations. At the present time, under my instructions, the following are associated with the work of the main Committee: the Lord President of the Council, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Secretaries of State for Home Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Dominions, the Colonies, India, War, and Air, the First Lord of the Admiralty, the Chiefs of Staff of the three Defence Services, and the Permanent Secretary to the Treasury as head of the Civil Service. Should a Minister change his Office or appointment, the vacancy on the Committee of Imperial Defence is, subject to the Prime Minister's discretion, usually filled by his successor.
§ Mr. THORNEHow often do you meet, and are your recommendations sent to the Cabinet?
§ The PRIME MINISTERIf the hon. Member will be good enough to put the Question down—it is one that is very often asked in this House—I shall be very pleased to give him an answer, but I have not the figures in my head.