HC Deb 21 January 1941 vol 368 cc23-4
47. Mr. Tinker

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that Members are concerned with replies which they get from Departments on matters that they feel would not be to the public good if followed by Questions on the Order Paper; and will he give consideration to see what way they can be dealt with?

The Prime Minister

My hon. Friend may be assured that Ministers are always anxious to answer the inquiries of hon. Members as fully as circumstances permit. If he has any particular instance in mind, I would suggest that he should approach the Minister concerned, who will, I am sure, supply him with as detailed a reply as possible.

Mr. Tinker

That is just the point. I have written to Ministers because I have not got satisfaction about the matters on which I have put Questions to them, and I wonder what steps I ought to take to get the matters further ventilated. When it is a question that might affect the security of the State, what other means have we of getting redress? That is the question.

The Prime Minister

I think the hon. Member should wrestle with the Minister concerned, in as good an accord as is possible. I am sure every effort would be made to give him all possible information, because naturally he would not wish to put a Question on the Paper which would do harm.

Mr. Tinker

But if I come to a blank wall and cannot get any further, what steps are then open to me to get my grievance ventilated? Is the right hon. Gentleman the final court of appeal if I cannot get satisfaction from the Departments?

Mr. Thorne

What chance would my hon. Friend have in wrestling with the right hon. Gentleman, according to his weight?