HC Deb 03 November 1949 vol 469 c586
45. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the urgent need for economy, he will introduce legislation to reduce the expenditure on the Civil List.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

No, Sir.

Mr. Hughes

May I ask the Prime Minister if he agrees with the advice given on the wireless this morning by the Lord President of the Council that we must keep a hawk-like eye on all extravagance? Is he also aware that I have here a picture of a motor car costing £6,000 supplied to the Duke of Edinburgh and another supplied to a Royal Duchess, and what is he going to do to curb this extravagance?

Mr. Gallacher

That is not joy riding in an ambulance.

Mr. Chamberlain

Since my right hon. Friend assured us that every form of expenditure would come under the closest scrutiny, and as there is obviously plenty of room for economy in the Civil List, is he now telling us that this item of expenditure is sacrosanct?