HC Deb 08 November 1944 vol 404 cc1366-7
71. Sir O. Simmonds

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state the names of those principally responsible for the design and construction of the "Mulberry" port.

The Secretary of State for War (Sir James Grigg)

In a work of such magnitude, many persons were naturally engaged, in the Royal Navy, Army and Ministry of Supply, as well as outside consultants, contractors and their workers. I cannot, of course, speak for the other Departments concerned, and the only names I shall therefore give will be members of the War Office staff or outside consultants directly called in by them. Design was carried out under the superintendence of Brigadier Bruce White, K.B.E., Director of Ports and Inland Water Transport at the War Office, and his staff. Many Civil Engineers and consultants, notably Messrs. Gwyther, Iorys Hughes, Lobnitz and Kent, contributed to the design. Construction in England was carried out by the Ministry of Supply. The work in Normandy was carried out jointly by the Royal Navy and the Army. The Army officer in charge of the work was Brigadier A. E. M. Walter, Royal Engineers.

Sir O. Simmonds

May I ask my right hon. Friend if, when it comes to the time to announce some of the other brilliant enterprises of this country in the invasion of Europe, he would consider making a similar comprehensive announcement, rather than having various individual announcements in the Press which are garbled and wholly inaccurate?

Sir J. Grigg

If my hon. Friend's suggestion is that, in future, we should blow our trumpet more loudly, I will certainly consider that.

Mr. Turton

Is it a fact that the idea of these designs originated at Supreme Headquarters of Combined Operations?

Sir J. Grigg

I said that the designs were carried out under the superintendence of Brigadier Bruce White.

Mr. Turton

But did the idea of the designs originate from Supreme Headquarters of Combined Operations?

Mr. George Griffiths

Do not tell them too much.