HC Deb 12 February 1946 vol 419 c170
37. Sir Waldron Smithers

asked the Secretary of State for War if he has now examined the evidence about the work of E.N.S.A.; and what arrangements are being made to continue E.N.S.A. work.

Mr. Lawson

As regards the first part of the Question I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Lord President of the Council to the hon. Member for Ashford (Mr. E. P. Smith) on 1st November, 1945. E.N.S.A. was an emergency wartime creation and its work has now virtually ended. It will, however, continue to operate on a reduced scale until the Autumn while future arrangements for live entertainment are being considered. The provision of cinema entertainment is being undertaken by the Army Kinema Corporation which should have relieved E.N.S.A. and the Army Kinema Services of all their obligations by June of this year.

Sir W. Smithers

I asked if the right hon. Gentleman has examined the evidence of all the scandals arising out of E.N.S.A.

Mr. Lawson

1 have referred the hon. Gentleman to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Lord President of the Council.

Captain Francis Noel-Baker

Would it be possible for my right hon. Friend to speak a little more audibly, as those of us at this end of the Chamber cannot hear his replies?