asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the refusal of the Departments concerned to give any information, on security grounds, he will propose a Secret. Session of this House to discuss the allocation of steel and other materials in short supply to the construction of warships, armoured fighting vehicles, aircraft and other weapons and warlike equipment for the Armed Forces, and the employment of manufacturing plant and civilian labour required therefor.

No, Sir.

Will the Prime Minister say how this House can carry out its most important business of controlling expenditure and looking after our military and economic security when knowledge of these essential facts are denied to it?

That can be discussed on the Estimates.