HC Deb 23 February 1922 vol 150 cc2101-2
61. Mr. LAMBERT

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will state what is the amount of each payment and to what potentates in Iraq are subsidies paid by the British Exchequer?

Mr. CHURCHILL

No subsidies are paid by the British Exchequer to potentates in Iraq. The civil list of the King of Iraq is a charge on local revenues.

Mr. LAMBERT

Are we to understand that the British taxpayer pays nothing to any of these potentates in Iraq?

Mr. CHURCHILL

That is quite true. The potentates to whom we do pay something are outside Iraq, and the reason for these emoluments is our desire to maintain peace.

Mr. LAMBERT

Who are the potentates outside Iraq to whom we are making payments?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I should have notice of that question.

Mr. MILLS

They are on the Front Bench.