§ 22. Commander BELLAIRSasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the estimated cost of the new residency for the High Commissioner in Bagdad?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThe total cost is approximately £167,000, inclusive of about £60,000 for the site. In addition to this a sum of £15,000 was provided in the Middle Eastern Services Vote for the current financial year for the completion of certain outbuildings and quarters for certain officials of the High Commissioner's staff and £8,000 for repairs and maintenance of existing buildings and offices. A saving on this year's provision is anticipated. The commitment was authorised in 1919. It should be explained that the Residency besides being the official residence of the High Commissioner himself contains office accommodation for the whole of his staff.
§ Captain W. BENNIs this pursuing the policy of cutting down anywhere we can which was announced last week?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREAs I have explained, this commitment was entered into in 1919, and the present Government are in no way responsible for it.