HC Deb 02 April 1941 vol 370 cc998-9
48. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Minister without Portfolio whether, in view of the small success that has attended the various committees of experts, such as gold, export, business and building experts, who have been chosen on panels to consider the work for reconstruction and other similar schemes, he will now strengthen these committees by the inclusion of practical persons who would be more representative of the views of the ordinary citizens of this country?

The Minister without Portfolio (Mr. Arthur Grenwood)

I do not accept the criticism of my hon. Friend. Many committees are now at work under various Departments, whilst discussions are proceeding with representative people on an informal basis. I shall always be glad to consider proposals made by practical persons.

Mr. De la Bère

Is my right hon. Friend not aware that the gold experts proved their ignorance while the export experts have proved no better? Why not employ some practical men on these consultative committees instead of the same old laissez faire people?

Mr. Greenwood

It is only practical men who can claim to be experts.