§ LORD DAVIESMy Lords, I beg to ask the question which appears on the Paper in my name.
§ [The question was as follows:
§ To ask His Majesty's Government whether in view of the increased intensity and extension of the enemy's submarine warfare and its serious repercussions upon the successful prosecution of the war, they will suggest to the Government of the United States of America the creation of a Joint Committee composed of persons who will devote their whole time to the solution of this problem.]
§ THE LORD CHANCELLOR (VISCOUNT SIMON)My Lords, the development of weapons and tactics to combat the U-boat menace is constantly under review by naval and air officers and civilian experts who devote their entire attention to the problem, and each country sends representatives to the meetings of the various technical committees on both sides of the Atlantic. Under the present system, the experts of each country are kept fully informed of the ideas initiated by their colleagues, and there is full discussion and interchange of information and advice at all levels on development and production, and co-ordination of effort and resources. The development and distribution of resources is also constantly under review. May I add that I shall give my noble friend a copy of this answer.
LORD STRABOLGIArising out of the Lord Chancellor's answer, when he speaks of discussion at all levels, what is the existing machinery at the highest level?
§ THE LORD CHANCELLORI would willingly give more information if I could. This is one of the cases where one is provided with an answer which I am sure has been very carefully prepared. I will, if I may, communicate my noble friend's question to those who sent me the answer.
§ House adjourned.