HC Deb 11 May 1939 vol 347 cc677-8
47. Mr. Lyons

asked the Prime Minister whether he will give the date from which the Ministry of Supply will commence to operate?

Sir J. Simon

The date in question depends on various factors, including the preparation and passing of the necessary legislation. I cannot, in the circumstances, pledge the Government to any specific date, but my hon. and learned Friend may be satisfied that there will be no avoidable delay.

Mr. Lyons

Is the work which would normally fall to the officers of the Ministry of Supply being suspended at present?

Sir J. Simon

I should require notice of that question.

Mr. Shinwell

Why is so much haste shown about the men and so little about the material?

49. Mr. A. Edwards

asked the Prime Minister whether, in drafting the Bill to set up a Ministry of Supply, he will consider giving that Department powers to purchase supplies of raw materials and store them in Dominions so as to ensure adequate supplies for our defensive measures and prevent the building up of potential enemy forces?

Sir J. Simon

The point raised by the hon. Member will be duly considered.

Mr. Edwards

If the Government do not take some steps to get these materials and to accumulate them, more farseeing Governments will accumulate them and return them to this country in the form of bombs.