45. Commander WILLIAMS forasked the Prime Minister whether, in the interests of national economy, he will appoint a committee of 1540 business men from all parties in the House with full powers to examine the administration and expenditure of Government Departments, with a view to recommending to the Cabinet material reductions in expenditure?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI have already appointed a Cabinet Committee in accordance with the declarations which have been made to the House. A good deal of material has already been assembled by the Treasury, and tie work will proceed without delay. I do not consider an additional inquiry by outside persons would help us.
§ Sir J. NALLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that most of the Bills at present before the House, apart altogether from the Pensions Bill, involve further expenditure, in some cases unnecessary, by the Departments?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat is true, but I am also aware that a large number of Members have been voting lately for further expenditure.
§ Sir J. NALLIn order to make a serious effort towards securing economy, will further money spending Bills not be introduced?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI could give that undertaking.
§ Commander BELLAIRSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware, in regard to his demand for business men, that what are needed (for sensible men.