§ 39. Sir J. Mellorasked the Prime Minister whether he can now give an assurance that mobile members of the Voluntary Aid Detachment, serving in hospitals of the Armed Forces, shall not, without their consent, be absorbed into other organisations, but may remain under the auspices of the British Red Cross Society and wear their customary uniform?
§ Mr. AttleeI understand that the proposal to enrol mobile members of V.A.Ds. in the Auxiliary Territorial Service, applies only to those serving under the War Department. Perhaps my hon. Friend would be willing to address any representations which he may wish to make to the Secretary of State for War, who is, I understand, receiving a deputation on the subject.
§ Sir J. MellorWhy is there a difference of policy between the Admiralty and the Air Ministry on the one hand and the War Office on the other?
§ Mr. AttleeThat is another question. The hon. Baronet had better put it down.
§ Sir J. MellorIf I address a Question of this kind to the Secretary of State for War, which I have previously done, he declines to answer for the other two Ministries. How, therefore, am I to obtain a reply on this point?
§ Mr. AttleeI suggest that the hon. Baronet should put his Supplementary Question on the Paper, and I shall be prepared to answer it. It does not arise directly out of this Question.