HC Deb 25 June 1940 vol 362 cc292-3
42. Mr. Vernon Bartlett

asked the Prime Minister whether, in order to lessen delay and confusion in existing Government Departments, and to avoid disappointment and discontent among individuals anxious to contribute ideas for the more effective prosecution of the war, he will consider the advisability of establishing an office, with liaison officers in every Government Department, to which suggestions for this purpose from all quarters can be sent for examination?

Mr. Attlee

I do not think that the creation of a new office would make for expedition, as the matter would ultimately have to be dealt with by the appropriate Department, but if my hon. Friend has in mind any particular difficulties and will let me know I will make further inquiries.

Mr. Bartlett

Is it not a fact that all Members of the House receive a great number of suggestions, some of which are good, and that they do not always know to which Department to send them, do not know whether they specially concern the Air Ministry or the War Office, and does the right hon. Gentleman not realise that it would be very helpful if there were a central committee to which these proposals could be sent?

Mr. Attlee

If the hon. Member sends on a suggestion to one Department and it is found that it does not concern that Department, it can always be passed on.

Mr. Bartlett

But does not that involve great and unnecessary delay?

Captain Sir William Brass

How long does it take to get it to the other Department?

Mr. Aneurin Bevan

Could there not be a sifting committee, who could dispose of the very large number of suggestions which are quite nonsensical and then submit to the appropriate Departments the remaining suggestions which are regarded as of value? Does the right hon. Gentleman not realise that his formal reply does not meet the realities of the situation?

Mr. Attlee

A very large number of suggestions are received, and hon. Members will realise that the task of sifting them would call for not only wide technical knowledge but also a knowledge of what has already been done and what is being clone, and that this work is much better done in the Departments than by an ad hoc committee.

Mr. Hannah

Should not these suggestions be taken up in secret?