§ 59. Viscount SANDONasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if he is 1688 aware that £1,800 was spent by Government Departments in 1925 in the purchase of Bradshaws and A.B.C.s; and if he will explain why so large a sum was spent for this purpose and take steps to have it reduced?
§ Mr. McNEILLThis expenditure represents the cost of supplying the publications in question to the whole of the Public Service of Great Britain, including the Port Establishments, the War Office and the Air Force Commands and the travelling inspectorates. Since 1920 the cost has been reduced by more than one-half, and demands are carefully scrutinised by the Stationery Office. My Noble Friend has presumably seen a Circular recently sent to all public Departments calling attention to the very expenditure referred to in the question, pointing out how further economies might be effected in this service, and asking for their co-operation in the matter.
§ Viscount SANDONWhat will be done by the Government to insist upon economy in this matter?
§ Sir HENRY CRAIKIs it not the case that very much greater expense might be involved by the absence of this necessary information?
§ Mr. McNEILLI can only say what I think hon. Members already know that we are doing all we can to press for greater economy in this particular direction.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINAre these books not bought at wholesale rates?