§ 47. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Mooreasked the Prime Minister what steps he has taken, or proposes to take, in view of recent events, to establish closer co-operation between the Royal Air Force and the other two Fighting Services: and whether it is his intention to place all forces fighting in the same area under one commander for operational purposes?
§ Mr. AttleeCo-operation between the Royal Air Force and the other Services is already very close, and methods of improving it are under continuous study. In regard to the second part of the Question, the decision must depend on the circumstances prevailing in each strategic area, and must be reached in close consultation with our Allies. My hon. and gallant Friend will be aware of the action recently taken regarding the South-Western Pacific area.
§ Sir T. MooreIf it has been found feasible to establish a unified command in the Far East, why is it not possible to do the same thing in the Middle East? How many lessons must we have before we learn from them?
§ Mr. AttleeI have already replied to the hon. and gallant Member that it depends on the circumstances.
§ Commander Sir Archibald SouthbyHave not the lessons of the war shown the desirability of having separate Air Forces for the Navy and the Army, and that until we have, we shall go on making the muddles that we are making at present?