HC Deb 21 January 1941 vol 368 cc22-3
45. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister whether he is now able to make a statement with reference to the war and peace aims of the Government?

The Prime Minister (Mr. Churchill)

Most right-minded people here and abroad, and especially in the United States, already fully understand the causes and principles for which we are waging war upon the Nazi tyranny. His Majesty's Government are always on the look-out for any opportunity of making a statement that would be helpful to our victory and to the liberation of the nations now ground down under the German yoke. I am not, however, able to add anything at the present time to previous answers on this subject.

Mr. Mander

Has not the appetite of the public been considerably whetted by various speeches made recently by Ministers, in which they spoke of some statement on the subject to be made shortly, and cannot that appetite be satisfied shortly?

Mr. Stephen

Is the right hon. Gentleman not unduly optimistic about how well aware people in other countries are?

The Prime Minister

I happened to be visiting the hon. Member's constituency recently, and the people there seemed fully aware of it.

Mr. Stephen

Yes, but is the right hon. Gentleman aware that people in other countries may not be so well aware?

The Prime Minister

As I have said, when a good opportunity presents itself, I or other Ministers will certainly be on the look-out to turn that opportunity to the best advantage.

53. Sir Stanley Reed

asked the Prime Minister whether, in the light of the situation in North Africa and the Mediterranean, he will consider definitely advising the Italian people of the peace aims of the British Commonwealth in relation to their country, so that they may be under no misapprehension as to the purpose for which they are being called upon to fight?

The Prime Minister

I do not propose to add anything at this stage to what I said in my recent broadcast to Italy.