§ 46. Mr. MANDERasked the Prime Minister whether any decision has yet been reached in the question as to whether or not a military expeditionary force will form part of the British contribution to collective security immediately on the outbreak of war; and whether the military forces will be definitely organised according to one plan or the other?
§ The PRIME MINISTERAs my right hon. Friend the Minister for Co-ordination of Defence explained in his reply to a question by the hon. Member on 8th 308 April, any decision on this suggestion could only be taken by the Government of the day in the light of all the circumstances. As regards the second part of the question, the hon. Member will recall the statement in the White Paper of the present plans for the improvement of our defensive forces.
§ Mr. MANDERIn view of the great interest taken in this question, will the Prime Minister be good enough to give an assurance that a definite decision will be arrived at in due course and communicated to the country as to the basis of our policy in regard to an expeditionary force?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe hon. Member will have several opportunities during the Session of raising this matter in the course of debate. Perhaps that would be a much better way of dealing with it than by question and answer.
§ Mr. H. G. WILLIAMSCan my right hon. Friend give some assurance that we shall not be committed indefinitely to collective security, fighting everybody everywhere to please the hon. Member for East Wolverhampton (Mr. Mander)?