HC Deb 26 October 1944 vol 404 cc343-4
45. Mr. Turton

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider providing, in the near future, facilities to enable some of the members of the Service Members' Committee to visit the troops in the Mediterranean Command, particularly in Italy and Egypt.

The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

Yes, Sir. Consideration is now being given to arrangements for parties of Members of Parliament to visit the Italian theatre of war. I know that General Wilson and General Alexander would welcome such visits.

Mr. Turton

While I thank the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, can he say whether it will extend to Egypt, because I understand from the reply it is to extend only to Italy?

Mr. Attlee

We will consider that but the first steps are being taken with regard to the Italian front.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the Army which regards itself as forgotten is that fighting in Burma?

Mr. Bowles

Will my right hon. Friend give the House an assurance that hon. Members who are selected will not be only Service Members?

Mr. Evelyn Walkden

And not only Tory Members?

Mr. Attlee

My reply said, "Members of Parliament." It is obviously not confined to any particular Members.

Colonel Sir A. Lambert Ward

Will facilities be arranged for Members of Parliament to visit their constituents on the Western Front?

Mr. Attlee

That consideration will be kept in mind.

Sir Herbert Williams

Will the right hon. Gentleman see to it that the provision of transport facilities to Members of Parliament will not hinder the bringing home of those men who have been out there three years?

Mr. Attlee

Certainly, Sir.