§ 46. Lieut.-Commander Fletcherasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the magnitude of the problems being brought to light by the developments of the Government armaments programme, as well as by the new problems which modern methods of warfare are introducing into strategical and tactical theories, he will appoint a commission or committee to inquire into the advisability of appointing a Minister of Defence and to report in three months?
§ The Prime MinisterThe answer is in the negative.
§ Lieut.-Commander FletcherMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, in spite of the new and urgent Defence problems coming to notice almost daily, his mind is firmly sealed against any such inquiry as is suggested in the question?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, only my lips are sealed sometimes.
§ Mr. Garro JonesHaving regard to the fact that the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence not only carries out his own duties, but acts as a first reserve in case of the illness of any of the Defence Ministers—
§ Mr. SpeakerMr. Morgan.