63. Captain CROOKSHANKasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the Treasury's estimate that it would save the taxpayers £13,000 a year, he will give instructions that in future only vouchers for third-class travelling will be issued free of charge to Members of this House?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLNo, Sir. Such a self-denying ordinance would not fall equally on all Members. It is, however, always open to any Member to return the difference to the Exchequer or not to avail himself of the facilities.
§ Dr. WATTSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, if the Government were to arrange with the railway companies to supply Members with first-class season tickets instead of with vouchers chargeable at the full ordinary rate, they would save much money?
§ Sir H. BRITTAINIs it not a fact that in every section of the British Empire, and practically every civilised country in the world, Members of Parliament enjoy first-class free passes over all the railways?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI believe that is so. In regard to the question of my hon. Friend the Member for Withington (Dr. Watts), that has been very carefully investigated in former years, and the conclusion reached was that financial advantage would not be gained.
§ Mr. R. MORRISONWill the right hon Gentleman consider giving Members the alternative of either having their present first-class vouchers or third-class season tickets?