§ 47. Mr. Craven-Ellisasked the Prime Minister what Government Departments have the responsibility of examining and working out plans with local authorities and industries which are intended to give employment to members of His Majesty's Forces when returning to civilian life after hostilities, as well as those now employed in the manufacture of armaments and munitions?
§ Mr. AttleeThe problems of post-war employment are intimately connected with the broader issue of post-war reconstruction which necessarily involves almost all Departments in the State. The subject is being studied, but it is not possible to formulate detailed plans until the conditions of the post-war situation become more clear.
§ Mr. Craven-EllisIs anything actually being done by these Government committees; does my right hon. Friend appreciate that it takes a long time to organise large enterprises which will give employ- 1575 ment; and does he also appreciate the importance of being organised, and that, while we have failed to organise a total war, we must be organised for total peace?
§ Mr. AttleeYes, Sir; I am very well aware of the importance of this question, but the hon. Member will realise that at the present time it is impossible to make detailed plans until we see how the situation develops.
Miss WardIs my right hon. Friend aware that it has already been stated that plans are being prepared; can he say whether there is a special committee dealing with this matter, and, if so, may we have the names of the committee?
§ Mr. AttleeI have pointed out that the matter is being considered, and I am not prepared to make a further statement at present.
Miss WardIs not my right hon. Friend aware that it has already been stated that plans are in the course of preparation?
§ Mr. AttleeI do not know where that has been stated, and perhaps the hon. Lady will tell me.
Miss WardWas it not stated by the Minister of Labour in several debates before the new Government were formed?
§ 48. Mr. Manderasked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the advisability of including amongst possible post-war aims the admission to the British Commonwealth of Nations all our present Allies on terms to be mutually agreed?
§ Mr. AttleeI have nothing to add to the reply given on 29th May to my hon. and gallant Friend, the Member for the Chatham Division of Rochester (Captain Plugge).
§ Mr. ManderWill my right hon. Friend be good enough to clarify in this connection a statement by General Sikorski, Prime Minister of Poland, in which he showed a certain interest in a development of this kind?
§ Captain PluggeSince that offer was made to France, surely it could be extended to the countries which have not surrendered and are continuing to fight with us?