ord ROBERT CECILasked the [...]or of the Exchequer how much [...]it is estimated will be saved 1232 annually by the Economy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, apart from the transference of burdens from taxes to fees?
§ Sir R. HORNEIt is absolutely impossible to furnish an accurate forecast of the savings referred to in the Noble Lord's question, as so much depends upon how far the provisions relating to children under six and the consolidation of police forces would be acted upon. On a rough estimate, however, I should hope that public charges would be diminished in a normal year by between £700,000 and £750,000. I should like to add, as some misconception seems to have arisen, that the savings to be effected are only those which we hope to be effected by legislation. The great bulk of the savings which we have expressed our intention to effect will be effected by administrative action rather than by this Act.
§ Lord R. CECILIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that my question referred only to savings actually accruing as a consequence of this particular Act?
§ Sir R. HORNEYes, and I have answered that question.
§ Colonel ASHLEYIs there any truth in the report that the Bill is to be withdrawn—I hope not?
§ Sir R. HORNENo.
Lieut.-Colonel MURRAYWill the right hon. Gentleman give details to show how he arrives at the £750,000?
§ Sir R. HORNEIt is impossible to give details, or an accurate forecast in a matter of this kind.
Dr. MURRAYCan the right hon. Gentleman give the amount to be transferred from the Imperial Exchequer to the rates?
§ Sir R. HORNEI do not think that any of the sums to which I have referred will be transferred to the rates at all.
§ Sir R. HORNEThe matter is one of speculation as to the extent to which certain reforms will be acted upon. We cannot be expected to give an accurate forecast.