§ 60. Captain W. BENNasked the Lord Privy Seal whether it is estimated that 438 any additional cost will fall on the Votes on account of the resumption of hostilities in Turkey; and, if so, what form the application to the Committee of Supply will take?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWAccount was taken when the Army Estimates for the year were framed of the disturbed situation, of the Middle East. It is possible that the course of events may involve certain additional charges for transport and possibly for munitions beyond those estimated for. If it is found impossible to meet them from savings on other heads of the Army Estimates, Supplementary Estimates will be submitted to the House. But I cannot regard the situation which has arisen to be correctly described as a resumption of hostilities with Turkey.
§ Captain BENNCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the Army Estimates have been so framed to allow a sufficient margin for this resumption of hostilities?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWNo, Sir. My answer is quite clear. We did expect a certain amount of difficulty which would require the detention of troops there.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODAre we to understand that there are not sufficient reserves of ammunition to supply the forces there?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIt all depends upon what the forces have to do.