§ Mr. Collinsasked the Secretary of State for War if, in view of the good work done by the Economy Branch of his Department, he will, in the national interest, reconsider the decision to disband this branch at the end of the year.
§ Mr. LawsonNo, Sir. This branch was set up to meet a special need by ensuring the practice of the fullest economy during a period of great expansion when the staff employed in Home Commands were not always fully experienced in such matters. With the run-down of the Army the much smaller staffs will consist of fully trained and selected officers, who can be expected to ensure the practice of economy, which is a normal function and responsibility of such staffs.