§ 24. Captain Gammansasked the Secretary of State for War why there is such delay in giving the divisional numbers and names of regiments of the British Army in operations in Europe, when similar information in respect of the American Army is issued in the course of actual operations.
Sir J. GriģģThis is, in the first place, a matter for the commander in the field, who is responsible for the safety of his men and the success of his operations. The need to give full details of the regiments which take part is, however, fully 11 appreciated, and my hon. and gallant Friend will no doubt have seen the lists which have been released in the last few days of units which have taken part in the advance to the Rhine. I have taken up the question again recently with commanders-in-chief in the various theatres of war.
§ Captain GammansDoes my right hon. Friend realise that it is difficult to understand sometimes if the British Army is fighting at all on the Western Front? Does he not think that representations might be made to the Allied Commander-in-Chief, to see that adequate publicity is given to both Armies under his command?
Sir J. GriģģThis is a difficult and very delicate question. I should like to consider it, without committing myself.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs it not most mischievous and dangerous to imply that the British Forces are not fighting? Do not we all know that they are fighting, and fighting well, and ought we not to say so?
§ Sir Joseph NallIn view of the time that has elapsed since D-day, could not more adequate publicity be given to the exploits of the British 30th Corps?
Sir J. GriģģI should have thought that a good deal of information about the exploits of the 30th Corps had been given.