HC Deb 27 November 1945 vol 416 cc1071-2
58. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what was the total amount of writing paper and envelopes consumed by the various Departments of the Government during the latest months for which figures are available; and how this quantity compares with the amount issued by the Stationery Office for the use of Members of Parliament during the same period.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Glenvil Hall)

For the three months ended 30th June, 1945, the value of supplies to Government Departments of all kinds of writing paper and envelopes was approximately £320,000. During the same period the value of supplies to the House for the use of Members was approximately £200.

Sir T. Moore

While not criticising the quantity or the cost of paper issued, could the hon. Gentleman do something to equalise the quality of paper, so as to enable the House of Commons paper to keep the ink on one side of the paper?

Mr. Hall

That question should be addressed to another Department, not to the Treasury

Sir T. Moore

No, Sir. I have gone into this matter very thoroughly, and I was told, or advised on the highest authority, that the hon. Gentleman was responsible for this matter.

Mr. Hall

I understand there is a committee which looks after the stationery of the House. In so far as the Treasury is concerned, I will certainly look into the matter.

Mr. Kirkwood

Seeing that the Minister has been instructed to look after it, will he take the job on and rectify the mistake?

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