HC Deb 29 September 1942 vol 383 c664
43. Mr. Bellenger

asked the Secretary of State for War how many times the Standing Committee on Army Administration have met during the past 12 months and who are the present members?

Sir J. Grigg

The Standing Committee on Army Administration has met on two occasions in the past 12 months, and is meeting again ton 1st October. I will send my hon. Friend a list showing the present composition of the Committee.

Mr. Bellenger

Is it not quite evident from the reply which the right hon. Gentleman has given that this Committee, and probably many others too, exist only in name and have no real functions unless an hon. Member puts a Question on the Order Paper?

Sir J. Grigg

It is not in the least so. The Committee, in the course of its deliberations, made recommendations for other machinery to carry on, in a day-today manner, things which it thought ought to be done. The Committee has created machinery which makes frequent meetings unnecessary.

Mr. Bellenger

Will the right hon. Gentleman give the House some information as to what are the reconunendations which have meant the superseding of this Committee?

Sir J. Grigg

My predecessor in office, on at least one occasion, if not more, has given the House the information.

Major C. S. Taylor

Will my right hon. Friend publish the names in the OFFICIAL REPORT?

Mr. J. J. Davidson

Have these committees executive authority?

Sir J. Grigg

Some have and some are advisory.