HC Deb 14 March 1893 vol 10 c27
MR. GIBSON BOWLES

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he can state the actual cost to England of the English force now in occupation of Egypt, including the pay, special and other allowances, and cost of transport, after deducting the contribution in aid to be received from Egypt?

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN,) Stirling, &c.

The contribution of £87,000 arranged to be made by Egypt for the coming year was fixed on the basis of the force maintained before the recent augmentation. It was understood to cover the excess cost arising from actual occupation, but did not include any sum for the ordinary payment of the troops, nor for depots and other expenses in this country. What the excess cost may be for the coming year with the augmented force it is impossible for me at present to say.

MR. GIBSON BOWLES

Has the excess whole cost arising from actual occupation been covered?

MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

That depends upon what is meant by "actual occupation."

MR. GIBSON BOWLES

What is the whole cost of the force?

MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

That I cannot state off-hand.