§ 48 Mr. Garro Jonesasked the Minister of Production (1) whether he will specify in more detail what were the powers for which he asked and which he was given;
(2) to what extent he exercises authority over the Minister of Aircraft Production or the Minister of Supply;
(3) whether he is aware that a certain amount of obscurity surrounds his position and powers in relation to the Minister of Supply and the Minister of Aircraft Production; that the absence of a clear definition of his powers, which it was hoped would make for smooth administration, is not working out that way so far; and whether, before serious friction 1972 develops, he will consider the advisability of making -a clear statement on this subject?
§ The Minister of Production (Mr. Lyttelton)There is nothing to add to the very clear statement made by the Prime Minister on 12th March, 1942, and my own statement on 24th March. As I said in my statement on 24th March, the powers which I have been given, as described by the Prime Minister and myself, are those for which I asked. There is no substance in the suggestion in Question No. 50 that the absence of a clear definition of powers is standing in the way of efficient administration.
§ Mr. Garro JonesHaving regard to the fact that the Minister has perpetuated the confusion surrounding his powers by answering these three specific Questions with an omnibus reply, I beg to give notice that I shall take the earliest opportunity of raising this subject on the Adjournment.