§ MR. BOTTOMLEYI beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury whether he can state what amount was expended in printing and advertising in connection with the establishment of the Department of the Public Trustee; what is the estimated total annual expense of such department; and what fees were received during the three months ending 30th March last.
§ MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSEI am informed that £110 has been spent on printing (including paper) in connection with the establishment of the Department of the Public Trustee. No expenditure on account of advertising has been incurred. The total annual estimated expenditure as shown in the published estimates, Class III., Vote 5, for salaries, wages, and incidental expenses, is £6,500, and in addition sums of £810 and £500 respectively are estimated to fall on other Votes in respect of office accommodation and stationery. The estimated receipts in respect of fees are for the first year to 31st March, 1909, £4,000. The fees estimated to be received up to 30th March, 1908, were £400; the fees actually received amounted to £532.
§ MR. BOTTOMLEYIn view of the heavy loss on the working of the Department, will the hon. Gentleman reconsider the question of whether he ought to keep the Department open?
§ MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSECertainly not.