§ 24. Mr. A. Edwardsasked the Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether, in view of the special problem created by the transition from war-time to peace-time economy, His Majesty's Government will suggest to the Dominion Governments the immediate re-establishment of the Imperial Economic. Committee to deal exclusively, till the end of the war in Europe, with the changed situation which has arisen during the war in the Dominions and to work out a plan for post-war Commonwealth prosperity.
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansPlanning for postwar Commonwealth prosperity must necessarily take into account many wide problems which go far beyond the functions of the Imperial Economic Committee as at present constituted. His Majesty's Government have these problems under continuous examination in consultation with the other Commonwealth Governments, and, while these consultations are proceeding, it would be premature to consider what further inter-Commonwealth machinery may hereafter be required.
§ Mr. EdwardsIs not the Minister aware that, unless people get together now, we shall reach the end of the war and disastrous conditions will be rife and the Government will have done nothing? They must take the initiative, and why not call this very appropriate committee together at the present time?
§ Mr. Edgar GranvilleIn view of the fact that the decentralisation of industry is inevitable in the British Commonwealth, can the hon. Gentleman say whether there is any committee, on which commercial representatives of the Dominions are sitting, in London at the present time?
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansNo, Sir. I cannot say definitely, without notice. But these consultations are taking place, as I said in the course of my answer. The actual Committee to which my hon Friend refers has very strict terms of reference and it cannot consider a general economic policy.
§ Mr. ShinwellCan the hon. Gentleman state which Government Department is primarily responsible for conducting these economic conversations with the Dominion Governments, and, if they are being conducted at the present time, when are we likely to receive a report on the matter?
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansI do not think that it will be possible to issue a report on these conversations at the present time.
§ Mr. ShinwellWhich Department is responsible?
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansSeveral Departments are concerned. The Board of Trade and the Dominions Office are both closely concerned in the matter.
§ Mr. A. EdwardsDoes not the Minister's reply mean that nothing is being done at the present time?
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansNo, Sir. If the hon. Member will read the answer, and also the very long answer I gave to him in detail on 2nd February, he will see that a great deal is being done.