HC Deb 23 March 1926 vol 193 cc1029-30
56. Mr. D. GRENFELL

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what has been the actual cost to the Exchequer for the provision of railway tickets for Members of this House in comparison with the amount included in the Estimates for this service from its beginning down to the last convenient date?

Mr. McNEILL

As regards 1924–25, the figures have been published in the Appropriation Account from which the hon. Member will see that the Estimate of the cost of this entirely new service was £70,000, while the actual expenditure was £22,177. For 1925–26 the Estimate was £40,000, and up to and including the 31st January, 1926, which I am informed is the most convenient date, warrants have been used amounting to £30,577.

Dr. WATTS

Does the right hon. Gentleman not really think it would be a considerable saving to the Treasury, and a great convenience to hon. Members, to provide them with season tickets, instead of having to pay the full ordinary fares?

Mr. McNEILL

That matter was very carefully considered, but it was found that it would entail so much extra expenditure that it was impossible to adopt it.

Dr. WATTS

In my case alone, it would save over £100 a year.

Mr. McNEILL

Yes, but the hon. Member's case does not stand alone.

Mr. REMER

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider giving an option in the matter? In my case there would be a very considerable saving.

Mr. McNEILL

The matter was very carefully considered, and it has been recognised that it would be impossible to mix the two systems. [HON. MEMBERS: "Why?"] I really cannot go into the reason, but it is so, and if the change were made, it would mean a considerable loss to the Exchequer.