HC Deb 27 March 1945 vol 409 cc1309-10
49. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Prime Minister how many hon. Members he has appointed to positions abroad representing His Majesty's Government; and how many of them were members of the Labour Party.

The Prime Minister

Excluding members of His Majesty's Forces posted abroad, 17 Members of this House have been so appointed since the present Government took office. Of these, six have given up their appointments, maKinģ a total of II at the present time. One of them was, at the time of the appointment, a member of the Labour Party.

Mr. Shinwell

Does my right hon. Friend regard that as a fair proportion; and does he not agree that there are hon. Members associated with the Labour Party who have all the qualifications necessary, or at least as good qualifications as hon. Gentlemen on the other side, and who could be sent abroad?

The Prime Minister

These appointments were made without any regard to Party at all.