§ 2. Mr. HUTCHISONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action, if any, he proposes to take as a result of the failure to achieve any economies in the administration of the League of Nations?
§ Sir J. SIMONIt is inaccurate to say that no economies were effected. Largely on the initiative of the United Kingdom delegation, modifications were made in the budget by the Fourth Committee, and a reduction of 351,531 gold francs was realised in the provision made for salaries and for several subsidiary organisations of the League. If the budget as voted shows no reduction on 956 the estimate, it is because an additional sum of 435,900 gold francs has been appropriated for the expenses of the forthcoming World Economic and Monetary Conference. Moreover the budget for next year as approved by the Assembly shows for the first time a reduction on that for the preceding year. In these circumstances His Majesty's Government do not consider that any further action is called for at the moment.
§ Captain PETER MACDONALDHas there been any reduction in salaries or in the number of officials?
§ Sir J. SIMONThere has been a reduction in salaries.
§ Mr. MANDERIs it not possible to obtain considerable economy by abolishing the unnecessary posts of Under-Secretaries General?
§ Sir J. SIMONThe hon. Member knows that that is the subject of very close consideration, but as this is an international body there are other nations beside ourselves who must be taken into account.