HC Deb 03 November 1920 vol 134 cc373-4
36. Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked the Minister of Health whether, before the Second Reading of the Ministry of Health Bill, he will issue a White Paper showing the expenditure involved under its various provisions?

Dr. ADDISON

A White Paper showing the additional expenditure of Exchequer money will be circulated when the Financial Resolution is put down.

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Is it possible for the right hon. Gentleman to circulate it before the discussion to-morrow?

Dr. ADDISON

I am afraid not. At present the only item available is the deferred amount, of the building subsidy, and I am afraid it is not possible to prepare a statement for to-morrow.

Mr. PRETYMAN

Will it also show the cost to the rates as well as to the Exchequer?

Dr. ADDISON

If my right hon. Friend will be good enough to await my statement on the Second Reading, he will see that there are many misapprehensions on that subject.

Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

May I ask whether it is possible to give any estimate of expenditure under powers which are permissive and not mandatory?

Dr. ADDISON

That, of course, is one of the difficulties. I shall show to-morrow that the expenditure in respect of the rates, so far as the Ministry is concerned, has been grossly exaggerated.