HC Deb 08 July 1936 vol 314 c1191
52. Mr. SANDYS

asked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence whether His Majesty's Government have yet reached a decision as to the advisability of setting up a ministry of supply?

Sir T. INSKIP

The Government will set up such a ministry if and as soon as they are satisfied that this would be in the public interest and calculated to facilitate or increase the rate of the completion of the Government programme.

Mr. SANDYS

Are we to understand that this matter is still under consideration, or that a decision has been taken for the time being not to set up a separate ministry of supply?

Sir T. INSKIP

It is a misconception of the position to speak of the decision as final. It is a matter which must constantly be under Government consideration, every day and every week.

Sir PERCY HARRIS

How long will it take them to make up their mind?

Mr. SHINWELL

If there is such keenness on the other side to secure adequate food supplies in time of war, why should not the Government start now and see that every family is adequately supplied?

Mr. SPEAKER

This question cannot be made the subject of debate.