HC Deb 07 December 1920 vol 135 cc1909-10
52. Captain TERRELL

asked the Prime Minister whether, before the House adjourns, some accurate résumdé can be made on behalf of the Government of the actual position of national finance, more especially as to the realisation of Budget hopes and expectations?

72. Mr. KILEY

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is now in a position to give an estimate of the surplus of revenue over expenditure during the current year?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

While it is too early yet to speak with confidence, I do not anticipate any very material variation from the Budget Estimate of a balance of £234,000,000 over expenditure.

Mr. SUGDEN

Not even on the Excess Profits item?

Mr. BILLING

Will opportunity be taken in the economy Debate on Thursday to address the House on the position of finance so as to make people wiser, and in the event of the Government not suc- ceeding in obtaining the Vote on that day, may we look to them to go to the country?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I do not know whether I can make anyone wiser by my speech in the Debate, but I will endeavour to give them information.