§ Mr. Lewisasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that, except for a few days at the time of the Coronation, the Under-Secretary of State for War has been away from his office through illness since last March and is not likely to be fit enough to resume his duties before the end of the Session; and what action he proposes to take to fill this position with an active and fit man.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerI have been asked to reply.
My hon. Friend the Member for Scotstoun fell ill in the Easter Recess and returned to the War Office at the end of May. On 12th of June, however, he had to go into hospital for an operation. I am glad to say that his health is rapidly improving and that he will be able to resume his duties early in August. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has kept under review the arrangements for carrying out his duties.