HC Deb 06 August 1942 vol 382 cc1189-90
56. Mr. Bartlett

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has now decided to open the canteens of the Young Women's Christian Association, and similar organisations, to members of the Women's Land Army?

Mr. Hudson

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister to my hon. Friend the Member for Frome (Mrs. Tate) on 21st July.

Mr. Bartlett

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the decision upon this matter rests with his Department or with the War Office; and if it rests with the War Office will he the next time I put a Question to the War Office and it is transferred to the Ministry of Agriculture, refuse to receive it?

Mr. Hudson

I cannot pretend that I consider the situation is satisfactory, but, as I understand it, the responsibility lies with the committee of the voluntary services, on which I am not represented and over which I have no control.

Mr. Bartlett

Which Minister is responsible for that committee?

Mr. Hudson

I am afraid that I do not know.

Mr. Bartlett

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is a matter which is regarded very seriously by the country? I know that he is anxious about it, and will he do his best to get the matter settled?

Mr. Hudson

As I have said, I think the present situation is highly unsatisfactory, especially, in view of the admirable work which members of the Women's Land Army are doing and the existing absence of facilities, I have, in fact, done my best, and I have to confess that in spite of my best the situation still remains highly unsatisfactory.

Sir Percy Harris

Will the right hon. Gentleman find out who is responsible, so that we can cross-examine him?

Major Petherick

Will the right hon. Gentleman ask the Prime Minister to consider the possibility of setting up a Ministry for the Co-ordination of Parliamentary Questions?