HC Deb 16 May 1944 vol 400 cc26-7
46. Mr. Mathers

asked the Prime Minister whether he will give particulars of the contribution made by public subscription towards Russia's war effort as apart from what has been done by His Majesty's Government.

The Prime Minister

I am not in a position to give particulars of all such contributions, but as mentioned in my statement of 10th May, since October, 1941, more than £3,000,000 have been spent through charitable organisations, on surgical and medical items and clothing.

* See OFFICIAL REPORT, 18th May 1944; Vol. 400, C. 347.

Mr. Mathers

I understood that the Prime Minister wished for an opportunity to give further particulars. Notwithstanding the large extent of these subscriptions, will he urge that they should be continued, because the need still continues?

The Prime Minister

Yes, Sir, they certainly should continue. One form of subscription is the penny-a-week subscription, which brings in a vast sum of money and embraces an enormous number of people. I certainly feel that the need continues and the ever-increasing severity of the fighting will make supplies of all kinds to Russia most necessary.