§ 45. Sir W. Smithersasked the Prime Minister whether he will arrange for frequent periodical conferences between representatives of the Ministries of Food, Agriculture and Transport, so that their regulations and plans may be better co-ordinated?
§ The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)Co-ordination between the Ministry of Food, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, and the Ministry of War Transport is already fully provided for by the discussions which take place between these Departments on all matters in which their interests are involved. The Department of Agriculture for Scotland and the Northern Ireland Ministry of Agriculture are also consulted on all proposals relating to the responsibilities of those Departments.
§ Sir W. SmithersIt may be provided for, but is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is much chaos, confusion and uncertainty in many walks of life, because of the want of co-ordination of the Regulations and Orders issued by these three Departments?
§ Mr. AttleeI was certainly not aware of that—apart from the general proposition which the hon. Member made. I should be very glad if he would give me specific instances.
§ Sir W. SmithersCertainly, Sir.
Mr. De la BèreIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that all three Departments have different public relations officers, and each sends out different notices, so that the whole thing is confused?