§ 46. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Prime Minister whether it is intended to form an Imperial War Council; and whether the council will have a representative in the War Cabinet?
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)I do not think that the hon. Member's suggestion is immediately practicable. There is already close contact with His Majesty's Governments in the Dominions on all matters connected with the prosecution of the war, and means for the fullest possible co-operation between the Governments are constantly under consideration.
§ Mr. SmithWill the Prime Minister reconsider that reply? In view of the magnificent way in which the whole of the British Commonwealth of Nations have rallied to the needs of the Commonwealth, and in view of the progressive policy that has been pursued by the Colonies and Dominions and the respect that the world has for the Government, may we be assured that we shall follow that policy?
§ The Prime MinisterI think, if I may say so, the hon. Member is not looking at 1062 this matter from the right aspect. This is not a favour to be offered by this Government to the Governments of His Majesty's Dominions overseas. It is a question of the best possible co-operation between the various Governments concerned, and I can tell the hon. Member that we are in close co-operation with them and we should have their agreement, I have no doubt, in any steps that we may take.