HC Deb 18 December 1956 vol 562 c1083
20. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to what extent he now estimates that the proposed economies of £100 million will be effected in the current financial year.

Mr. H. Macmillan

Apart from certain defence items, I know of no reason at present why the savings on the particular services to which I referred in my announcements should not be effected. For defence, I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for West Ham, North (Mr. Lewis), on 22nd November last.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Is the Chancellor aware that, in accordance with the promise he made on 25th October, he has still to announce another £6¾ million worth of economies to bring the total up to this fictional £100 million? When will he let us know—or is he just satisfying the need to the extent of 93 per cent. of his original promise?

Mr. Macmillan

If all promises were satisfied to that amount, it would not be too bad.