§ 48. Mr. Granvilleasked the Prime Minister if he is satisfied that the present method of consultation between Dominion leaders is adequate for day to day co-operation on Commonwealth policy; and if the recent speech of Lord Halifax, our Ambassador in Washington, represents the policy of His Majesty's Government.
§ The Prime MinisterThe proper occasion for consideration of such issues is a meeting between the Prime Ministers of the Empire. It is hoped to hold such a meeting at an early date. Lord Halifax in his recent speech at Toronto about co-operation within the British Commonwealth was not making any pronouncement on behalf of His Majesty's Government. His speech, like those of other distinguished figures on this subject, was a valuable contribution to study and discussion.
§ Mr. GranvilleDoes that mean the House will be given no opportunity to express an opinion on these problems until the Dominion Prime Ministers' Conference has been concluded?
§ The Prime MinisterI cannot imagine that such a conclusion could be read into what I have just said.
§ Mr. ShinwellIn view of my right hon. Friend's reply to that supplementary question, and having regard to the fact that Lord Halifax, and the other place, and several other distinguished persons have expressed their opinions on this question of Empire co-operation, would it not be desirable, and would it not strengthen my right hon. Friend's hand if the House debated the matter?
§ The Prime MinisterThat is a matter to be put to the Leader of the House.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs my right hon. Friend aware that last week I put the matter to the Deputy Prime Minister but he was reluctant to give a definite reply?
§ The Prime MinisterI shall certainly be bound to imitate his reluctance.
§ Mr. Austin HopkinsonCan my right hon. Friend inform us who is the moving spirit behind these attacks on Lord Halifax?