Mr. Humeasked whether the Estimates for the Military and Naval Expenditure were not to be reduced? He contended that they were now much too large.
§ Lord Althorpreplied, that it would be extremely inconvenient at this period to enter into any explanation as to the financial views of Government; but he could assure the hon. member for Middlesex, and the House, that it was the intention of Ministers to adhere to the strictest economy in framing the Estimates for the public service. He must, however, decline stating anything further.
Mr. Humesaid, he did not ask for the particular account of each separate Estimate, but for information on the simple fact, as to whether the amount of the whole Estimates exceeded or fell short of those of last year. Something ought at once to be known on the subject. Last year the Establishments had been considerably increased. The Army had been increased from 81,000, to 88,000 men, and the Navy from 2 9,000, to 32,000 men—and the expenditure for these services had increased from 16,800,000l. to 17,800,000l. He contended, that before the Resolution was agreed to, some information on the subject ought 144 to be given. If none was now afforded, he should, on the bringing up of the Report of the Committee, move an amendment.
§ Resolution agreed to. House resumed.