§ 37. Sir W. Smithersasked the Minister of Health what is the total amount of capital expenditure on the National Health Service since its inception; and if he will give an estimate of the proposed capital expenditure in the next three years.
§ Mr. BevanThe total amount of capital expenditure on the National Health Service from its inception to 31st March, 1949, is estimated at £7,321,000. No estimate of the proposed capital expenditure in the next three years can be made at present as this is dependent on the Government's programme of capital investments, which is under consideration.
§ Sir W. SmithersIs the Minister aware that mad expenditure by his Department is one of the main reasons for the economic crisis?
§ Mr. BevanThe supplementary question is as irrelevant as such questions usually are when they come from the hon. Member.