But there have been wide differences of view on many
specific questions, the treatment of aliens, the organisation of man-power and industry, the Vansittart broadcasts and foreign propaganda, civil defence, including shelters and conditions in reception areas, some recent appointments and so forth. The constructive criticism on these matters has, I believe, helped the Prime Minister, particularly on the home-front. Such criticism is at least as useful as sitting on a local Informa- tion Committee. In fact one can sit on half a dozen committees or be in one of the Services and still apply criticism. It is dangerous doctrine to convert the proper citadel of criticism into a place for functionaries and yes-men. This is why the Commons asserted itself and why the Government was right to make important concessions.
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