HC Deb 24 July 1941 vol 373 cc1033-4
26. Lieut. Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how the selection was made of a lady to go to the United States of America to represent the London Auxiliary Ambulance Service; with what object and for what duration the appointment is intended; whether it is at the public expense, if so, on what Vote; and whether the selection was made with the knowledge of the acting officer in charge of the London Ambulance Service?

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Herbert Morrison)

The suggestion that a delegation of Civil Defence workers should be sent to America is still under consideration, and no final decision has been reached.

Sir T. Moore

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this appointment was published in all the newspapers and has caused a great deal of concern among those who were not consulted, but should have been consulted, in the selection of the person to go?

Mr. Morrison

I saw those Press notices. I think they are the result of a misunderstanding, because the matter has not reached the stage of decision.

Sir T. Moore

Will the right hon. Gentleman assure us that no appointment is made without consultation with the appropriate authorities?

Mr. Morrison

In any case I will take care of that, as I shall have to be consulted myself.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that the person sent really represents this service?

Mr. Morrison

Yes, I will certainly keep that point in mind, but no final decision has yet been reached.