As I write the House is listening to a series
of small debates on Bills from different Departments. There are ten junior Ministers on the Front Bench, fifteen other Members in the House, and nine visitors in the Gallery,—evidence that unless there is an important debate or a secret session, the House meets either to hear a statement from the Prime Minister or to catch the mood reflected at question-time. One by one Members are being caught up in some form of war-work, and those in the Services can make only spasmodic attendances. As long as the Government is still trusted the House will wear this ragged appearance. But if confidence flags or Ministers reveal incompetency it is ready to meet any emer- gency in grim and angry mood. Let, therefore, Ministers beware. The War Office naturally is a target for criticism ; its replies are not always convincing. Mr. Bevin has now arrived, and is called Big Boss Bevin by his colleagues. He is acting quickly, but even he must be careful that his words are matched by clear administrative decisions.
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