HC Deb 17 February 1943 vol 386 cc1747-8W
Sir T. Moore

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the anxiety expressed in this House regarding Regulation 18B and its administration, he will consider a revision of the system and procedure connected with this Regulation?

Mr. Peake

The extent of the powers which are conferred on the Secretary of State by Defence Regulation 18B, and the use which has been made of these powers, have been discussed in this House on a number of occasions, the most recent being only last week. I do not know what particular revision of the system and procedure my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind, but if the underlying suggestion is that there should be some form of appeal and that the ultimate decision should rest with some person or body of persons other than the Home Secretary who is responsible to this House for national security, such a proposal is not one which could be accepted.