HC Deb 18 March 1935 vol 299 cc798-9
2. Sir A. KNOX

asked the Secretary of State for India how many of the nine Provinces of British India showed a deficit on their last annual budget; and what was the total sum involved in British currency?

Sir S. HOARE

As the reply contains a number of figures, I propose, with my hon. and gallant Friend's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Sir A. KNOX

Is it not true that there are six Provinces in deficit?

Sir S. HOARE

My hon. and gallant Friend will see the facts set out in the Paper I have sent to him. A satisfactory feature is that, although wage cuts have been restored, the position is not worse substantially this year than it was last.

Following is the reply:

The following table indicates the amount, in rupees and sterling, of the surpluses and deficits anticipated in the Provinces of British India, other than Burma, according to the Budget Estimates for 1935–36 as presented to the Legislatures:

Surpluses: Rs. lakhs. £000s.
Madras 5 36
Punjab 9 64
Total 14 100
Deficits:
Bombay 2 15
Bengal 69 519
United Provinces 17 130
Bihar and Orissa 14 108
Central Provinces 2 12
Assam 56 419
North-West Frontier Province. 12 89
Total 172 1,292