HC Deb 09 June 1896 vol 41 cc722-3
* SIR CHARLES DILKE

I beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury, whether, pending appeal, it will be necessary to find for the Egyptian operations in the Soudan, and for the Indian expedition to Suakim, moneys other than those held by the Mixed Tribunals to have been illegally advanced by Mr. Money and others from the Reserve Fund; and, whether it is intended by Her Majesty's Government to invite Parliament to come to the help of the Egyptian Government in respect of such charges?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

The answer to the first part of the Question is no, so far as the Egyptian operations are concerned. The extraordinary expenses of the Indian garrison at Suakim will, I think, in accordance with the usual practice, be defrayed out of the Treasury Chest. Of course, in what way the Treasury chest will be repaid is a question for future consideration. The second Question is under the consideration of the Government.

MR. J. H. DALZIEL (Kirkcaldy Burghs)

inquired whether they were to understand that the right hon. Gentleman adhered to the declaration he made in introducing the Budget?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

Certainly. Of course, at that time, I did not anticipate the decision of the Tribunal. That decision is subject to appeal, and I have every hope it will be set aside.

* SIR C. DILKE

Without desiring to press the Government to-day on a matter which they state is under consideration, will they be prepared to tell us, at all events soon, what is the rate of expenditure and from what actual source it is being met at the present time?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

The Egyptian expenditure is, of course, being met by Egyptian funds, which are by no means limited to the £500,000 which has been already advanced.

MR. DALZIEL

Will this be the case until the appeal is heard, which, I understand, will not be until October? Will that be the source in the meantime?

MR. SPEAKER

I think notice should be given of that Question.

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

Perhaps I may be allowed to say that there is nothing in what has occurred which makes any difference, in my opinion, in the position in which we at present stand.