asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Department' of Overseas Trade is a Joint Department of the Foreign Office; whether dislocation and inefficiency of work results from its being so far removed from the Foreign Office; and whether, in view of the importance of being prepared at the conclusion of hostilities with regard to overseas trade, he will see that it is properly housed as soon as possible?

I am much obliged to my hon. Friend for drawing attention to this subject. The difficulties arising from the separation to which the hon. Member refers are very serious and are fully recognised, and I am in communication with the First Commissioner of Works on the subject

Can my right hon. Friend say when he thinks he will be in a position to give a satisfactory reply?

My hon. Friend will understand that, unfortunately, it does not rest with me.

Will my right hon. Friend not only communicate with the First Commissioner of Works, but press upon him the great importance and urgency of this matter?

I will certainly convey that opinion in that quarter.