HC Deb 20 November 1919 vol 121 cc1115-6
27. Sir ROBERT THOMAS

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the sittings, now proceeding, of Mr. Speaker's Conference on Devolution and to a right understanding of the people of Wales and Monmouthshire of the financial responsibilities involved in any scheme constituting such an area a self-governing unit, he will direct the Treasury to prepare such a financial Return as will indicate, approximately, the total revenue received, and the total contributions made, by the Imperial Exchequer under each county, showing the particular source and service affected in respect of Wales and Monmouthshire?

28. Major BREESE

asked the Prime Minister whether in view of the sittings, now proceeding, of Mr. Speaker's Conference on Devolution and to a right under standing by the people of Wales and Monmouthshire of the financial responsibilities involved in any scheme constituting such an area a self-governing unit, he will direct the Treasury to prepare such a financial Return as will indicate approximately the total revenue received and the total contributions made by the Imperial Exchequer, under each county, showing the particular source and service affected in respect of Wales and Monmouthshire?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Baldwin)

If the Conference desire this information the Treasury will do their best to supply it.

Sir R. THOMAS

Does the hon. Gentleman not think it absolutely essential for the Welsh party to have this information in order to consider the whole subject and give instructions to their representatives on the Royal Commission?

Mr. BALDWIN

Certainly. I agree with the hon. Member, but I would warn him that it will be very difficult to get very accurate figures of the nature he desires, and there will be a large element of error; but we will do our best.

Sir R. THOMAS

The question asks for approximate figures. Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that we have made representations to the Treasury for this information, which is absolutely essential, in order to consider this very important question, and the information has been refused?

Mr. BALDWIN

I think my answer covers the point.