§ 46. Mr. Garro Jonesasked the Prime Minister whether plans are complete for the co-ordination and unified command of the three Services in the event of war; and whether any form of personal command or machinery charged with this function, other than the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence, is in existence to-day which was not in existence in 1918?
§ The Prime MinisterIn reply to the first part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to my answer to a similar question on 30th November. As regards the second part of the question, the whole subject has been studied in the light of the Great War and of subsequent experience. The present arrangements provide for the fullest use of the machinery of the Committee of Imperial Defence, which has been very much ex tended since 1918, including such developments as the Chiefs of Staff and Joint Planning Sub-Committees.
§ Mr. Garro JonesCan the Prime Minister say whether the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence has undertaken any strategic co-ordination between the three Defence Services?
§ The Prime MinisterPerhaps the hon. Member would put that question down.
§ Mr. Garro JonesMay I, with great respect, ask the Prime Minister whether he is not aware that that is at the very root of the question on the Paper; and that being so, am I not entitled to a reply on this occasion?
§ The Prime MinisterIt may be at the root, but it does not appear above the ground.