HC Deb 27 November 1941 vol 376 cc880-1
45. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister, why the name of Lord Halifax is omitted from the list of the War Cabinet recorded in the OFFICIAL REPORT?

The Lord Privy Seal (Mr. Attlee)

As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister stated publicly at the time of his appointment, Lord Halifax, while serving abroad as an Ambassador, cannot be a member of the War Cabinet. But on occasions when he returns to this country for consultation, as in August and September last, he resumes his full functions and responsibilities as a Minister of the Crown and a member of the War Cabinet.

Mr. Mander

Can my right hon. Friend say whether his position differs from that of the Minister of. State, who is abroad for a considerable period arid remains a member of the War Cabinet all the time?

Mr. Attlee

It is the same position exactly.

Mr. Mander

But is he aware that the name of the Minister of State is included in the War Cabinet in official publications, and that there is therefore a difference between the two; and can he explain what it is?

Mr. Attlee

I shall have to look into the reason why one name has been included and the other omitted.

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