60. Captain TUDOR REESasked the Prime Minister whether the letter which he addressed to the spending departments last August resulted in any and, if so, what economies; and whether, if he is satisfied with such result, he will address another communication to them with a view to reducing the sum which they continue to expend?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe letter referred to has proved useful in helping the Treasury to secure the co-operation of Departments in the reduction of their staffs. The process is necessarily a gradual one, but in the case of certain Departments the Government have decided at the instance of the Treasury to appoint special independent Com- 1744 mittees to carry out test investigations on the spot.
§ 62. Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSONasked the Lord Privy Seal whether an opportunity can be given to discuss the question of limiting public expenditure to a definite proportion of the estimated national income?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWA general financial discussion would, I think, be very desirable. It can be taken on the Treasury Vote, and I should be glad if this Vote were asked for at an early date.
§ Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONWould it be possible, in anticipation of such a Debate, that the Treasury should provide a White Paper showing their estimate of what the national income is?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe Treasury have no estimate made by themselves of the national income. It has been explained over and over again that many estimates have been made, but none of them official.
§ Mr. A. M. SAMUELWhen the Treasury gives such reply as it may be able to give, will Estimates be presented showing the amount required for the expansion of industry, so that we may know how far taxation should go?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIf any attempt were made to give that figure, the difference of opinion would be greater still.
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSWould it be possible to publish a White Paper showing the economies actually effected since the Budget was introduced?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI will consult my right hon. Friend about that. It will be his desire, I am sure, before the Debate, to give the House all possible information.