§ 45. Mr. Purbrickasked the Prime Minister, in view of the recent pronouncement by the United States Foreign Economic Administration that Germany is now producing war materials adequate for a long war of defence against our offensive at its present magnitude, he will now increase that magnitude by further intensifying our bombing campaign on their centres of production.
§ The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)His Majesty's Government are well aware of the effort which the Germans are putting into the production of defensive material. It is still the policy to reinforce and accelerate to the maximum the bombing effort against German production centres.
§ 48. Mr. Rhys Daviesasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Committee of the International Red Cross recently made an appeal to all belligerents to refrain from indiscriminate bombing affecting lives and property devoid of military importance; what response has been forthcoming to that appeal, and, in particular, the attitude of His Majesty's Government towards it.
§ Mr. AttleeThe appeal to which my hon. Friend refers was received by His Majesty's Government on 3rd January, and has been acknowledged. As regards the last part of the Question, the policy of His Majesty's Government in regard to air bombing has been frequently explained to the House.
§ Mr. DaviesCannot His Majesty's Government, with their vast experience in international, diplomatic and political affairs, take the lead to prevent this indiscriminate bombing on both sides and the destruction of very valuable property and human life, and continue to do so throughout the war?
§ Mr. AttleeI do not admit the charge of indiscriminate bombing. I suggest that my hon. Friend might turn his attention to those who began it.