asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how the selection was made of a lady to go to the United States of America to represent the London Auxiliary Ambulance Service; with what object and for what duration the appointment is intended; whether it is at the public expense, if so, on what Vote; and whether the selection was made with the knowledge of the acting officer in charge of the London Ambulance Service?

The suggestion that a delegation of Civil Defence workers should be sent to America is still under consideration, and no final decision has been reached.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this appointment was published in all the newspapers and has caused a great deal of concern among those who were not consulted, but should have been consulted, in the selection of the person to go?

I saw those Press notices. I think they are the result of a misunderstanding, because the matter has not reached the stage of decision.

Will the right hon. Gentleman assure us that no appointment is made without consultation with the appropriate authorities?

In any case I will take care of that, as I shall have to be consulted myself.

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that the person sent really represents this service?

Yes, I will certainly keep that point in mind, but no final decision has yet been reached.