HC Deb 30 October 1945 vol 415 cc229-30
43. Sir G. Jeffreys

asked the Secretary of State for War in what form he anticipates announcing his proposals for the future organisation of the Army; and whether he will consider embodying such proposals in a White Paper with a view to opportunity being given to the House to discuss them before final decisions are taken regarding them.

Mr. Lawson

It would be premature for His Majesty's Government to make an announcement of the form in which they intend to make public their proposals regarding the future organisation of the Army. There are, of course, some matters on which pronouncements can be made without awaiting decision upon the wider questions of policy, notably the Government's intentions regarding terms of service as to which I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply which I gave to the House on 16th October to a question by the hon. and gallant Member for Kingston-upon-Thames.

Sir G. Jeffreys

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer the part of the Question referring to the possible publication in a White Paper of the terms of the Government's proposals in order that the House may have an opportunity of discussing them?

Mr. Lawson

It would be premature to give an answer as to the form of publication in this matter.