HC Deb 14 July 1950 vol 477 cc1739-40

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be read the Third time."—[Mr. Jar.]

11.59 a.m.

Colonel Crosthwaite-Eyre (New Forest)

I should like to ask one question which arises out of the previous Debate, namely, whether the Financial Secretary can say how much it is proposed to take from the Civil Contingencies Fund before such time as legislation is introduced, and whether such drawings will include both our initial payments by way of subscription and also our initial debit payments.

12 noon.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Douglas Jay)

I am afraid it is impossible to give a detailed answer to that question in terms of figures. Of course, in so far as we need to make advances before legislation effecting the European Payments Union is produced, we shall make use of the Civil Contingency Fund, as my right hon. and learned Friend explained in his recent statement, thereby confirming what was foreshadowed in the previous Debate. However, I am afraid it is impossible at this stage to determine what the amount will be, still less to make a precise public statement to the House. Of course, any amounts involved, together with the other liability, will be within the new total of the Fund.

Colonel Crosthwaite-Eyre

Would the hon. Gentleman answer the second part of the question, about including the initial debit amount?

Mr. Jay

It is not possible to foresee that precisely, but I think it is quite probable it will.

Question put, and agreed to.

Bill accordingly read the Third time, and passed.