HC Deb 21 January 1942 vol 377 cc347-8
47. Mr. Riley

asked the Prime Minister whether any decision has been reached regarding the formation of an Allied War Council for the combined conduct of the war in all theatres; and whether he can make a statement on the subject?

Sir J. Anderson

Perhaps my hon. Friend would be good enough to await the general statement which my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister proposes to make at an early date.

Mr. Riley

May I remind the Minister that there is widespread concern about this matter?

Mr. Granville

Is the Minister aware that statements have been made in Washington by Mr. Stephen Early and other representatives of the American Government and at a Press conference held by the President yesterday, and is it not discourteous to public opinion in this country and the House of Commons to postpone a statement of any sort as to what has been done with regard to the setting-up of an Allied War Council for the conduct of the war?

Sir J. Anderson

I am sure the House would prefer to wait for a full statement by my right hon. Friend.

Mr. Granville

Is the Minister aware that all the time statements are being made in the United States, yet we have to wait four or five weeks before any authoritative statement is made in this country by His Majesty's Government? Is this not treating the House of Commons and public opinion in this country in a discourteous manner?