HC Deb 27 March 1907 vol 171 cc1801-2
SIR GILBERT PARKER

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will lay upon the Table a Return showing the specified limits put by law upon municipal borrowing in the different States of the United States.

SIR EDWARD GREY

I will consult with the Board of Trade as to whether such a Return would be of value, and will inquire whether it would easily be obtained.

SIR GILBERT PARKER

was understood to ask what Department was responsible for this matter.

SIR EDWARD GREY

said it was usual to consult all Departments concerned before making a promise to grant a Return, as a promise might be made and it might be found subsequently very difficult to obtain the facts asked for.

MR. CHIOZZA MONEY (Paddington, N.)

Will the right hon. Gentleman simultaneously grant a Return showing the limits put upon such expenditure in other countries?

SIR EDWARD GREY

This supplementary Question shows the danger of making promises.