§ 1. Mr. William Hamiltonasked the Prime Minister how many times he has met the Leader of the Opposition in the last two months to discuss defence matters; and what was the outcome of such discussions.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Wilson)The right hon. Gentleman and I are in touch about the possibilities of continuing consultation.
§ Mr. HamiltonIs my right hon. Friend seized of the need for urgency in this matter? Does he agree that if the knowledge of the Leader of the Opposition on defence is as inadequate as his knowledge of economic matters there is not a moment to be lost?
§ The Prime MinisterThere has been no suggestion of meetings of this kind about economic affairs. I am sure that the 223 right hon. Gentleman the Leader of the Opposition will agree that we had quite a constructive talk last week.
§ Sir A. V. HarveyWill the Prime Minister bear in mind that in addition to Privy Councillors there are some backbench Members who would like to be informed on these matters? Will he think in broader terms and try to keep the House informed generally rather than a few select people on either side of it?
§ The Prime MinisterI am sure that the Defence White Paper published today will add greatly to the information on defence matters for all hon. Members, and that the defence debate, when it takes place, will go even further in that direction.