HC Deb 15 April 1970 vol 799 cc1383-4
37. Mr. Ridsdale

asked the Lord President of the Council if he will make a statement on the Government's present policy regarding the appointment of a Select Committee on Defence.

Mr. Peart

I have nothing to add to the reply I gave to my right hon. and learned Friend the Member for Ipswich (Sir Dingle Foot) on 24th March, 1970.

Mr. Ridsdale

But if the right hon. Gentleman is not willing to move towards the idea of setting up a Select Committee on Defence, which is supported in a Motion signed by over 100 Members, would he arrange for a debate? Does he not realise that the existence of one Defence Staff and not three emphasises the necessity of having some other means of cross-examining Service chiefs?

Mr. Peart

I am aware of the Motion, which I have seen. I have already informed the House that the Government will be publishing their proposals on specialist Select Committees very soon—some time this spring. I hope that then the House will have an opportunity to debate the matter, when no doubt this point will be raised.

Mr. John Mendelson

Would my right hon. Friend bear in mind that there is a body of opinion in the House which is opposed to the setting up of more specialist Select Committees? Will he frame his proposals with these views in mind as well as other views submitted to him?

Mr. Peart

I am aware of another point of view, that Parliament should focus all its attention on the Floor of the House rather than in specialist Committees. That view must be considered.