HC Deb 24 March 1955 vol 538 c2262
35. Mr. Langford-Holt

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the percentage increase in total annual expenditure of the central Government over the last: four years.

Mr. H. Brooke

Including defence expenditure, about 33 per cent.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Could my hon. Friend say what has been the percentage increase or decrease in civil expenditure on the one side and defence expenditure on the other?

Mr. Brooke

Defence expenditure has increased by 88 per cent. I should not like to give an exact figure with regard to civil expenditure, but it is relatively small.

Mr. H. Hynd

Can the hon. Gentleman explain why there has been this increase in expenditure in view of the Government's promises that they would reduce national expenditure?

Mr. Brooke

There have, unfortunately, been wars and rumours of wars throughout the world.

Mr. S. Silverman

With regard to the 88 per cent. increase in four years in defence expenditure, can the hon. Gentleman tell the House what we got for the money?

Mr. Gaitskell

Is the Financial Secretary really unable to tell us what the percentage increase in civil expenditure is? Surely he has the figures? Is it not at least about £200 million or £300 million?

Mr. Brooke

On the civil side it is relatively small, compared with the expenditure on defence. I would willingly give the full figures if I were asked for them, but I have answered the Question put to me.