HC Deb 12 March 1936 vol 309 cc2314-5
71. Mr. MESSER

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has considered the possibility of the anticipated expenditure on the defence services increasing the cost of living of the general community; and whether he is proposing to take any and, if so, what steps to prevent such increase?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I have no reason to anticipate the result, the possibility of which is suggested by the hon. Member, and accordingly I see no need for action in this respect.

75. Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether, before any expenditure is incurred in furtherance of the policy of the White Paper on Defence, a Supplementary Estimate will be presented and approval obtained by a Vote of this House?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. W. S. Morrison)

As indicated by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer in the Debate on Tuesday, His Majesty's Government intend to proceed forthwith to give effect to the plans outlined in the White Paper which were approved by the House in the resolution adopted on 10th March. Estimates for the additional provision required will be presented to the House as soon as practicable.

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware of the statement of the Prime Minister that the vote at the end of the Debate would not be a vote to authorise expenditure?

Mr. MORRISON

I am well aware of what my right hon. Friend said. The House in that Motion approved the programme, and the Government are getting on with it as quickly as possible. Full control of the House of Commons over expenditure will be maintained.

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

Is not that a direct contradiction of what the Prime Minister said?

Mr. MORRISON

No. What the Prime Minister said was that the Vote of 10th March was not authorising expenditure. The proper time for the authorisation of expenditure is when the Estimate is presented to the House, and that will follow as soon as may be.

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

Does not this expenditure enable the Government to make a start with this programme, and is not that contrary to what we were informed?

Mr. MORRISON

No, Sir. I see no contradiction in that.

Mr. BENSON

How can the House approve of the programme when we do not know what the programme is?

Mr. MORRISON

The fact is that the House approved of it.