HC Deb 17 March 1942 vol 378 cc1310-1
15. Mr. Granville

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he has any information as to a forthcoming visit of the Australian Minister for External Affairs to this country in the near future; and whether there is to be any change in the present arrangement, whereby the Australian Government are represented in London by a special Minister?

The Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs (Mr. Attlee)

I have been glad to learn that the Commonwealth Minister for External Affairs intends to visit this country after his forthcoming visit to the United States, which has been announced in the Press. While he is here Dr. Evatt will be the accredited representative of the Commonwealth Government in the War Cabinet and on the Pacific War Council, in place of Sir Earle Page. His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom warmly welcome Dr. Evatt's visit.

Mr. Granville

May we take it that the Australian Minister for External Affairs will be given the fullest opportunity to discuss questions relating to the future of the British Commonwealth with the War Cabinet? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that public opinion wishes Ministers to show audacity and not to behave like a timid hen?