HC Deb 12 December 1944 vol 406 c1040
49. Sir Waldron Smithers

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will state under general headings the policy of His Majesty's Government in the order of priority claims on the public purse in the immediate post-war period of three years.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir John Anderson)

I am afraid that it is not practicable to deal with this matter in the way suggested by my hon. Friend.

Sir W. Smithers

Does not my right hon. Friend realise that these hopes may be dashed to the ground unless he will say what provision is possible for all the Bills envisaged in the Gracious Speech?

Sir J. Anderson

I always try to avoid raising undue hopes. It is the practice of the Government to make clear to the House as we go along what expenditure is involved in legislative projects which may be commended by the Government to Parliament.

Sir W. Smithers

Can the Government make clear how the expenditure is going to be met?

Sir J. Anderson

I hope we shall make that clear in due course.