HC Deb 25 November 1942 vol 385 cc709-10
46. Rear-Admiral Sir Murray Sueter

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to Field Marshal Smuts' recommendation that an authoritative special supreme staff of scientific naval and air experts should be established to supervise a new campaign against U-boats; and whether he proposes to take any action in this matter?

Mr. Alexander

I have been asked by the Prime Minister to answer this Question. The campaign against U-boats is constantly and energetically studied and supervised by the Staff and experts of the Admiralty, Air Ministry and Coastal Command, and by a very large band of associated scientists, many of whom are highly distinguished. Our liaison with our Allies is very intimate. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister informs me that Field Marshal Smuts authorises him to say that, after examination, he was satisfied that all necessary measures are being taken.

Sir M. Sueter

Will the Government arrange for a Debate on the U-boat menace, not in Secret Session, but at an open Sitting?

Mr. Alexander

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Gentleman will raise that matter with the Leader of the House.

48. Sir M. Sueter

asked the Minister of Production whether the three scientific advisers recently appointed to his staff will be permitted to consider the recommendation recently made by Field Marshal Smuts that, in view of the fact that we have in this country some of the finest scientific genius in the world, a new supreme staff of scientists and other experts should be established to deal with the U-boat menace?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Production (Mr. Garro Jones)

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which he has just been given by my right hon. Friend the First Lord of the Admiralty on this subject.