§ 49. Dr. MORRIS-JONESasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he contemplates introducing any further measures during this Session to achieve a reduction in the National expenditure?
§ Major ELLIOTAs my right hon. Friend stated in his Budget speech the 205 estimates presented to Parliament already achieve savings of £79,000,000 from the aggregate sum estimated last September to be required for Supply Services in 1932. To this I can only add that the possibility of further reductions of National expenditure will of course engage my right hon. Friend's continuous attention.
§ Dr. MORRIS-JONESIs the right hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware that, although the Estimates for this year show a decrease over last year, the Estimates for the whole of the Government Departments show an increase over 1923–24 and that that is a very serious aspect of the financial situation, in view of the very grave position of the country?
Major THOMASAre we to understand that the Government have no definite ideas in regard to future economy?
§ Major ELLIOTThe position in regard to future economies must be the main pre-occupation of the Government, but it is impossible to give a plan, as I have seen it suggested in certain newspapers, for a reduction of expenditure.
Major THOMASDoes the right hon. and gallant Gentleman not think that the Government might well appoint a committee to go into the whole matter?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND - TROYTEWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman make a big reduction in the number of Civil Servants employed?