HC Deb 29 September 1942 vol 383 cc673-4
58. Colonel Medlicott

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the White Paper on the Pay and Allowances of the Armed Forces was drawn up in a form which was open to question on the ground of the suppression of material facts; and what steps he has taken to have the author of the document appropriately dealt with?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir Kingsley Wood)

This Paper was presented by the Government, who are themselves responsible for it. My hon. and gallant Friend is entitled to criticise the Paper or the Government who issued it, but is not entitled to make the suggestion implicit in the last part of the Question. Neither can the allegation contained in the first part be accepted.

Colonel Medlicott

Is the Chancellor aware that the White Paper was con- demned in all parts of the House, and that both as to its form and contents fell far below the high standard which we expect in an official publication?

Sir K. Wood

I understand that in the course of the Debate my hon. and gallant Friend suggested something should be done to the officials, but that is not the usual practice.

Mr. Stephen

Would not the best way to deal with this matter be to get rid of the Government responsible?