HC Deb 23 January 1941 vol 368 cc296-7
46. Mr. Tinker

asked the Prime Minister whether he will make a statement, or issue a White Paper, showing in general terms the assistance rendered to this country by the other parts of the Commonwealth, as such a report would prove to the world the unity of the Empire in carrying through the war?

The Lord Privy Seal (Mr. Attlee)

Statements on various aspects of the British Commonwealth's war effort have been made in this House and elsewhere from time to time. It would not, however, be practicable to issue a comprehensive statement without giving valuable information to the enemy. I do not in any case think that there is any lack of knowledge of the splendid assistance which is being rendered by all parts of the Empire.

Sir Francis Fremantle

Has my right hon. Friend seen the report of Mr. Joseph Kennedy's statement in the United States indicating that he had no earthly idea of what our war aims were?

Mr. Benjamin Smith

That is why he talks so much.

Mr. Attlee

The Question deals with the war effort and not with war aims.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider putting together within one cover the information which has already been published, and will he not consider whether that might have a yen valuable propaganda effect throughout the world?

Mr. Attlee

I will certainly consider that suggestion.

Mr. Tinker

Would it not be possible to issue a statement on general lines without giving information to the enemy? It ought to be known what we are doing in the Commonwealth as well as Hitler telling people what they are doing.