§ MR. W. H. SMITHasked the Secretary of State for War, Whether a Vote of Credit would be asked for in respect of the Soudan Expedition; and, if so, whether it would be laid before the House within the next few days?
§ MR. PULESTONasked, whether the financial arrangements for the railway would be kept separate from the Estimate for war purposes?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONThe Supplementary Estimates will be laid upon the Table to-night. They will, of course, refer to expenditure which is expected to take place within the present financial year. It is expected in the next financial year a Vote of Credit will be asked for; but I cannot, at present, say when. As to the Question of the hon. Member for Devon-port (Mr. Puleston), the Supplementary Estimates will be laid on the Table in the usual form, but the Vote for the railway will be distinct from the rest of the Estimates.
§ LORD GEORGE HAMILTONasked, whether the Vote of Credit was to be submitted to the Select Committee to be appointed to inquire into the expenditure on account of the Army and Navy; and, if not, why not?
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. CHILDERS)I have been unable until now, owing to its being blocked by the noble Lord, to bring forward the Motion for the appointment of the Select Committee, in fulfilment of the promise that I made to the Leader of the Opposition. It is not intended to refer the Vote of Credit to that Committee, but only the regular Estimates for the Army and Navy.
§ MR. PULESTONasked, whether the House was to understand that the expenditure incurred in connection with the Suakin-Berber railway had been merged altogether in the general expenditure, or whether a separate account would be kept?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONA separate account will be kept. I will see whether any further information can be procured.
MR. GORSTasked, whether the Estimates would be in such a form that the expenditure in connection with the railway would be distinguishable?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONsaid, he did not think it would be advisable to delay the Estimates; but he would see if any other arrangement could be made.