WAR COSTS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 24 November 1939, Page 5

WAR COSTS

BRITAIN’S HUGE DAILY EXPENDITURE \ — AT LEAST SIX MILLIONS. I APPEAL FOR SAVING MADE BY CHANCELLOR. By Telegraph—Press Association —Copyright. LONDON, November 22. In a broadcast to the nation in connection with the new issue of defence bonds and savings certificates, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Sir .John Simon, stated that the war was already costing Britain at least £6,000,000 a day. The war budget, which imposed heavier burdens than ever, had been borne by the British people with a calm and readiness that afforded wonderful proof of the determination of the nation. However, the increased taxation would not pay more than half the amount that was being expended this year, for which reason it would be necessary to borrow., Sir John Simon stressed the need for saving every penny in order to lend it to the Government. He added that avoidable spending would help to raise prices unnecessarily. With the goodwill of the people he was confident a great contribution for war purposes would be secured. The present war was the most expensive that had ever been fought, a radio message reports the Chancellor as stating. The vast expenditure was necessary in order to provide the fighting forces with the best instruments, and it had to be shouldered bj; all citizens. The extent of the war taxation would react very heavily on all —those with wealth and those further down the scale.

“I would like to make it clear that this is a voluntary appeal and not a compulsory order,” Sir John Simon added. He was confident that there existed among the people a clear desire to assist to the fullest extent in the present struggle, and that their response would reflect their unity and determination in seeing it through to the bitter end.