§ 19. Mr. Pagetasked the Secretary of State for war what official duties have been carried out by Miss Melise Menzies since her employment by his Department.
§ Mr. ProfumoNone, Sir.
§ Mr. PagetIs not this rather grim news for the recruiting campaign? We were electrified by the announcement that the right hon. Gentleman had personally recruited this charming lady and that this would make all the difference to our recruiting figures. Even when her picture appeared next day in a military cap, with rather more hair under it than even a woman sergeant-major would be likely to stand for, we still had our hopes.
§ Mr. ProfumoI am sorry if I have dashed the hon. and learned Gentleman's hopes. But, in spite of what has appeared in many newspapers, I assure him that I did not offer Miss Menzies a job nor did I suggest that she should pose for a recruiting poster. I ought to make it clear that recruiting for the W.R.A.C. is proceeding in a most encouraging way and it has no need, nor has the rest of the Army, of any gimmicks for its recruiting.
§ Mr. Robert CookeWill my right hon. Friend take it from me that the young lady in question has a brilliant brain as well as her more obviously endearing physical charms?
§ Mr. ProfumoI can claim only the most slender acquaintance with the young lady.
§ Mr. G. BrownIs she on the telephone?