§ 18. Mr. KINGasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that Britain's advances to her Allies reach an amount which it is estimated will add for every year of the War an annual burden on this country of, approximately, fifty millions sterling; and whether any decision has been arrived at by the Treasury as to the proper or possible limit of the expenditure on the War which this country ought or is able to bear?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. McKenna)I am not sure that I understand the estimate of my hon. Friend. The question of the limit of expenditure in connection with the War is receiving the earnest attention of the Treasury.
§ Mr.McKENNADefinite decision, no. It would be almost impossible to come to any definite decision as to the precise figure, as it must more or less depend on the circumstances which arise.
§ Mr. KINGIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that a great deal of anxiety prevails upon this matter, in connection with the subject we are to discuss to-day? Will he take the opportunity of expressing more fully his views in the course of the Debate?
§ Mr. McKENNAI cannot undertake to do so.