HC Deb 21 May 1912 vol 38 c1749
Mr. KING

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the practice in certain countries by which expenditure under the head of Secret Service is communicated in confidence to a Budget Committee, with a view to some similar arrangement in this country?

Mr. McKENNA

I am not aware that the practice referred to by the hon. Member exists in any foreign country.

Mr. KING

Will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries and inform himself as I have informed myself?

Mr. McKENNA

If my hon. Friend will supply me with a case in point I will certainly inquire into it.

Mr. JAMES HOPE

Is it not the fact that nearly all foreign Governments have means of obtaining money for Secret Service otherwise than through Votes in Parliament?

Mr. McKENNA

That is not the substance of the question.