HC Deb 14 July 1942 vol 381 cc1070-1
45. Sir John Mellor

asked the Prime Minister whether he will explain the divergence of policy between the War Office on the one hand and the Admiralty and Air Ministry on the other with regard to mobile members of the Voluntary Aid Detachment?

Mr. Attlee

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War will shortly be making a statement to the House on this subject, and perhaps my hon. Friend will await the announcement of the War Office proposals.

Sir J. Mellor

In view of the anxiety which the proposal of the War Office has caused, would my right hon. Friend say why the War Office has seen fit to make this proposal whereas the other Services have not?

Mr. Attlee

It is in view of the anxiety that my right hon. Friend is to make a statement.

Sir J. Mellor

Will the Secretary of State for War deal with the attitude of the other two Services?

Mr. Attlee

I will consult with my right hon. Friend on that point.

Earl Winterton

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, as I understand, there was an undertaking given across the Table by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War that before he made any public announcement on the subject he would receive a deputation representing all parties in the House? Will the Deputy Prime Minister call my right hon. Friend's attention to this matter, which is of some importance, for we ought to have an opportunity of seeing him before he makes a statement?

Mr. Attlee

I understand that my right hon. Friend is receiving a deputation.

Miss Cazalet

Will the Directors of the three Women's Services be consulted before a decision is taken?