§ 42. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for India why the special railway siding at Quetta was constructed recently; whether he is satisfied that this was necessary in view of present conditions; and whether any action is being taken to curtail expenditure on social and Government functions in India with a view to an example being given respecting private expenditure?
§ The Secretary of State for India (Mr. Amery)I am informed that no special railway siding has been constructed at Quetta recently. Instructions have been 414 issued by the Government of India enjoining strict economy in all non-defence expenditure. These instructions apply to social and ceremonial expenditure.
§ Mr. SorensenDoes the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that there is an impression in certain quarters that expenditure on social and Government functions in India goes on much the same now as before the war, and will he consider the evidence concerning the railway siding at Quetta?
§ Mr. AmeryThere are wrong impressions in many quarters. I should be prepared to receive any information with regard to the siding at Quetta.