§ 35. Mr. Langford-Holtasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the percentage increase in total annual expenditure of the central Government over the last: four years.
§ Mr. H. BrookeIncluding defence expenditure, about 33 per cent.
§ Mr. Langford-HoltCould 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. BrookeDefence 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. HyndCan 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. BrookeThere have, unfortunately, been wars and rumours of wars throughout the world.
§ Mr. S. SilvermanWith 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. GaitskellIs 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. BrookeOn 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.