§ 17. Mr. Prenticeasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will continue the practice of issuing an annual White Paper setting out the Government's proposals for public expenditure over the next five years; and when he expects to issue a White Paper for the years 1970–71 onwards.
§ Mr. Maurice MacmillanWe shall continue the series of White Papers begun 480 last year giving five-year projections of public expenditure; and we shall publish a White Paper in the autumn.
§ Mr. PrenticeMay I urge the right hon. Gentleman to bring forward the White Paper as early as possible in the autumn, as we on this side of the House will want an early opportunity to measure the danger to the social services and public services resulting from irresponsible Conservative promises about public expenditure.
§ Mr. MacmillanWhile in no way accepting the implications of the right hon. Gentleman's remarks, I certainly wish, as does my right hon. Friend, to have a White Paper as soon as possible, consistent with care and certainty.
§ Mr. AlbuDo the Government intend to move for a Select Committee on Public Expenditure as recommended by the Select Committee on Procedure in the session before last?
§ Mr. MacmillanIf the hon. Gentleman will put down a Question on that subject to the Leader of the House, I think that would be the appropriate way of dealing with the matter.