HC Deb 29 November 1938 vol 342 cc243-4
53. Mr. Wedgwood Benn

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer on what objects the credit to Czechoslovakia, made at His Majesty's Government's private suggestion, is being expended; and whether any conditions have been laid down which would prevent the money being expended on public works, such as a military motor road through Czechoslovakia?

Sir J. Simon

I would refer the right hon. Member to the reply given yesterday to my hon. Friend the Member for Lincoln (Mr. Liddall). I am informed that no part of the advance has been or is to be used on the construction of a military motor road.

Mr. Benn

Can the right hon. Gentleman, as Deputy-Leader of the House, say whether he approves this action of the Treasury in continuously ignoring Parliamentary authority in the matter of this loan?

Sir J. Simon

I am afraid I cannot regard the matter in that light.

Mr. Benn

Does not the Prime Minister think it is a little more than a joke that public money should be expended continuously without Parliament being consulted?