§ 46. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Prime Minister who, under the new defence arrangements, will be responsible for civil defence.
§ The Prime MinisterResponsibility for civil defence is not affected by the arrangements announced in the statement on Central Organisation for Defence. In addition to his direct responsibilities under the Civil Defence Act, 1948, my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary continues to be responsible for co-ordinating the defence plans of the civil agencies of government.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Prime Minister aware that there are eleven members on this new Defence Board and that the Home Secretary, who is in charge of civil defence, is not on it? Should not there be one representative with experience of civil defence on it? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in default of being on this Defence Board, the Home Secretary can do nothing else but explain his views in the News of the World?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. If the hon. Member had read, or would read again, the White Paper, he would find that the Board can call in others to help; and of course my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary is a leading and important member of the Defence Committee of the Cabinet.