HC Deb 14 November 1939 vol 353 cc531-2
46. Mr. John Morģan

asked the Prime Minister whether Ministers outside the War Cabinet meet regularly as an executive group for the purpose of co-ordinating the policy and work of their respective Departments in trade and home affairs; and whether he has under consideration any precise proposals for improving upon the present arrangements?

Sir J. Simon

In reply to the first part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given by the Prime Minister on 18th October to my hon. Friend the Member for Wallsend (Miss Ward). As regards the second part of the question, the Prime Minister sees no reason at the present time to suggest any alteration in the present arrangements, which, however, will be subject to review in the light of experience.

Mr. Morģan

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the general dislocation on the home front, due to the obvious lack of contact between Departments; and does he not consider that that is information or evidence?

Sir J. Simon

I would ask the hon. Gentleman to look at the passage in the OFFICIAL REPORT to which I have referred him. I have read it carefully, and I know that the facts set out there bear on the very point which he has put.