HC Deb 09 March 1944 vol 397 cc2184-5
46. Sir A. Knox

asked the Prime Minister whether, when differences of opinion occur between the Ministries of Fuel and Power, Labour, War Transport or the services, reference has to be made in each case to the War Cabinet; and whether, in order to ensure adequate attention and prompt decision, he will arrange for such matters to be decided by the Minister of Production or other specially appointed Minister.

The Prime Minister

Satisfactory arrangements already exist for settling differences of opinion between Departments by means of War Cabinet Committees, and of the powers of the Minister of Production to settle production priorities and to make allocations.

Sir A. Knox

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that the present deplorable situation in regard to the supply of coal is due entirely to the failure of the Minister of Fuel and Power to be able to put his case with sufficient force for the release of men to work the mines?