§ 45. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Prime Minister if he has given consideration to the abolition of certain Ministries on the termination of hostilities; what action is it proposed to take; has he considered merging the Ministries of Production, Supply and Aircraft Production into a Ministry of Production and Economic Development with an economic council and authority to carry out development and function on the basis laid down in the White Paper on Full Employment and take over responsibility for an organised expansion in our export trade.
§ The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)The question whether and for how long after the termination of hostilities it will be necessary to continue wartime Departments, and the question of the organisation necessary to carry out the Government's employment policy, are under consideration. The Government's decisions will be made known in due course.
§ Mr. SmithWill my right hon. Friend give an assurance regarding the need for a national organisation in order that we may set about getting the maximum export trade? Will he give an assurance that that matter will be taken into urgent consideration?
§ Mr. AttleeCertainly, that is a matter which is being taken into urgent consideration, but I cannot anticipate the decision that will be reached.
§ Mr. PetherickIs my right hon. Friend aware that we are not yet convinced that, if you want anything done properly, it should be done by a Government Department?
§ Mr. SmithWill my right hon. Friend bear in mind that war experience has proved that great efficiency can be brought about by these methods?