HC Deb 09 September 1942 vol 383 cc168-9W
Flight-Lieutenant Etherton

asked the Prime Minister whether the Deputy Prime Minister is Deputy Minister of Defence; and what is the extent of his responsibilities?

Mr. Attlee

There is no title, Deputy Minister of Defence, as such. In the absence of the Prime Minister the Deputy Prime Minister presides at all Cabinets and meetings of the Defence Committee, and is responsible for transacting all business usually done by the Prime Minister which cannot be referred to him.