HC Deb 11 June 1940 vol 361 c1116
29. Commander Locker-Lampson

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the recent surprises in relation to German tanks, he will improve the Intelligence Branch of the War Office; and whether he will form a committee of Members of Parliament with knowledge of tank warfare to co-operate with the Government?

Mr. Law

I do not accept the implication that my Department was ill-informed or surprised in relation to German tanks. As regards the latter part of the Question my hon. and gallant Friend will be aware of the recent constitution of a Tank Board.

Commander Locker-Lampson

Might not the services be used of the best expert in this House on the subject of tanks—my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Hertford (Sir M. Sueter)?

Mr. Shinwell

If the War Office were not surprised about the German tanks, why were they not prepared to meet them?