HC Deb 04 March 1924 vol 170 c1167
48. Mr. MARLEY

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the Island of Jersey costs the Imperial Exchequer per annum?

Mr. SNOWDEN

The gross annual expenditure in the island by the Imperial Exchequer is about £195,000, but £48,000 of this represents the cost of War pensions. £9,200 is spent on the Militia, and £137,000 represents the cost of the regular garrison stationed in the island. The remainder (less than £1,000) represents an estimate of the cost falling on various other Departments of State. I am informed that only a very small saving would be effected on Army Votes if the garrison were removed. On the other side of the account there are receipts averaging about £900 a year, representing the surplus of Crown revenues derived from dues, sales of land, etc., after deducting the necessary expenditure on administration.

Mr. MARLEY

Does that include the grants made by the Charity Commissioners?

Mr. SNOWDEN

It includes all the expenses which fall upon the Imperial Exchequer?

Sir B. FALLE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that all this Imperial expenditure is forced on the island, and is not asked for or wanted?

Mr. SNOWDEN

The hon. Gentleman appears to be better informed than I am on the matter.