§ Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Secretary of State for War what, in the case of British Somaliland, was the excess of Government expenditure over revenue in 1938; what steps he is taking or proposes to take to ensure a balanced budget in that colony; and when does he estimate this will be possible.
§ Mr. BellengerThe excess of Government expenditure over revenue in 1938 was about £21,000. In view of the uneconomic nature of the country and the need to provide adequate services, I cannot say when it will be possible to balance the British Somaliland budget, but within the resources available energetic action is being taken to explore and develop the economic resources of the Protectorate.