HC Deb 02 April 1968 vol 762 cc155-6
13. Mr. G. Campbell

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what changes he proposes to make in the system of annual publication of the Vote on Account.

Mr. Diamond

I am considering this matter, but am not ready to make any statement at present.

Mr. Campbell

Can the Chief Secretary explain the system under which the Vote on Account one year is regarded by the Government as of great significance and importance and is dismissed as of little significance in the following year?

Mr. Diamond

No, Sir. I cannot explain those two statements, because they were not made. What the Government have said, through me, is that the Vote on Account can be very misleading if it is regarded as an indication of public expenditure. The last thing I want to do is to mislead hon. Members.