HC Deb 21 August 1940 vol 364 cc1279-80
9. Sir Stanley Reed

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the review of the grant-in-aid to the branch of the Royal Institute of International Affairs at Balliol College has been completed; and, if so, what reduction in the grant is anticipated as a result thereof?

Mr. Butler

So far as can at present be anticipated, a reduction in the Budget of the Foreign Research and Press Service amounting to not less than £8,000 will be effected by the Council of Chatham House, as a result of economies.

Sir S. Reed

Does my right hon. Friend mean that the grant-in-aid figure is £57,000?

Mr. Butler

Not if there is a reduction.

Sir S. Reed

Was not the original grant £65,000?

Mr. Butler

I must look into these figures, but the fact remains as stated by me. It is expected that there will be a reduction of the figures I have mentioned. The Foreign Research and Press Service and the political and economic intelligence and research work being done for His Majesty's Government are at present under consideration.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the first consideration must be the efficiency of the service rendered to the Government?

Mr. Butler

Yes, Sir.