HC Deb 23 November 1943 vol 393 cc1443-4
48. Mr. Molson

asked the Prime Minister whether he will define the duties and functions of the Minister without Portfolio and his relationship to the Minister of Reconstruction in the War Cabinet?

Mr. Attlee

The Minister without Portfolio (Sir William Jowitt) will assist Lord Woolton in carrying out his duties as Minister of Reconstruction.

Mr. Molson

In what way do these duties differ from those of an Under-Secretary or Parliamentary Secretary when the Minister is in another place?

Major Petherick

Is the right hon. Gentleman really satisfied that there is any necessity for the continued existence of the Minister without Portfolio now that he has even less of a portfolio than before?

Mr. A. Bevan

Is it the intention of the Government in the Debate on the Address to make a fuller statement on the matter?

Mr. Attlee

Certainly, if the matter is raised in Debate there will be a full opportunity of discussing it.

Mr. Bevan

In the Government's own statement on the Address, is it intended to make a fuller statement so that this very important office may be considered in all its implications?

Mr. Molson

May I have an answer to my question?

Mr. Attlee

I should like to see it on the Paper.

Mr. Kirkwood

Is it not possible for them to hound all the Labour Ministers out of the Cabinet?