HC Deb 08 July 1920 vol 131 c1627
36. Lieut.-Colonel CROFT

asked whether the Cabinet has sanctioned the expenditure of £8,000,000 for grants to ex-service men to attend universities and other educational establishments; and, if so, what justification there is for this expenditure, in view of the state of the national finances?

The MINISTER for EDUCATION (Mr. Herbert Fisher)

The scheme was approved by the War Cabinet on the 6th December, 1918, and it has been in operation since January, 1919. It was fully explained in two pamphlets issued in January and February, 1919, by the Ministry of Reconstruction. I am quite prepared to justify the expenditure both on grounds of public policy, as necessary to replenish the stock of well educated men required for industry, commerce and the professions, and as an acknowledgment of the nation's debt to the officers and men who served in the national forces.

Lieut.-Colonel CROFT

In view of the fact that we were told last year that this country is on the verge of bankruptcy, will the right hon. Gentleman consider seriously the undesirability of spending this vast sum on the education of these officers and men at a time when the money would be better spent in providing employment in industries?

Mr. SPEAKER

The right hon. Gentleman is answering questions and not engaging in Debate.