HC Deb 13 November 1940 vol 365 cc1702-3
47. Mr. Parker

asked the Minister without Portfolio how often the Economic Policy Committee and the Production Council, respectively, have met since their creation; and whether he is satisfied that the machinery for economic coordination is working satisfactorily?

The Minister without Portfolio (Mr. Arthur Greenwood)

The Economic Policy Committee and Production Council have met on an average between two and three times a month since they were set up. Much of the work within the sphere of these bodies is done by informal conferences and sub-committees and I should deprecate the idea that the number of full meetings held is an adequate criterion of a committee's effectiveness. As regards the last part of the Question, the answer is "Yes" but every opportunity will be taken to improve the machinery as experience suggests.

Mr. Parker

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there is a good deal of disquiet about the lack of planning in our economic war effort, and is he taking any steps to hasten the effective planning of the war effort?

Mr. Greenwood

Consideration of one or other aspect of that problem is taking place every day of the week.

Mr. Shinwell

Are the expert economists associated with the Department fully consulted, and frequently by my right hon. Friend?

Mr. Greenwood

Certainly, Sir. I spend a great deal of every day with them.

Mr. Davidson

Does the Production Council deal with the question of the buildings in which the production takes place?

Mr. Greenwood

No, not as such, though the Minister responsible for building is a member of the council.

Mr. Davidson

Will my right hon. Friend keep in mind that production in certain areas is being considerably delayed because of the bad building policy of various Departments?

Mr. Greenwood

That matter is now under very active investigation.