HC Deb 28 February 1951 vol 484 cc2088-9
49. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Minister of Defence if he can now make a statement defining more clearly the duties of General Eisenhower.

Mr. Shinwell

At the time of his appointment, it was announced that General Eisenhower would have the authority to train the national units assigned to his command and to organise them into an effective integrated defence force. General Eisenhower has now returned to Europe to assume his command.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

May I ask my right hon. Friend who pays General Eisenhower and how much?

Mr. Shinwell

The budget arrangements are now under active consideration.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

In view of the right hon. Gentleman's appreciation of General Eisenhower would he refute the totally false statements he made to the Foreign Press Association yesterday about our relations with America?

Mr. James Hudson

While, appreciating the value of General Eisenhower, might I ask whether it would not be wise to make much clearer the definition of his functions, in view of the uncertainties which arose in reference to General McArthur?

Mr. Shinwell

I have answered the Question as far as it permits, but no doubt there will be further clarification of the command organisation at a later stage.

Mr. Snow

In view of the rather embarrassing events at the Battle of Yorktown, and of the great traditions of the British Army, is it not very improper to have British troops under the command of an American general?