asked the Lord President of the Council what is the present overdraft of the House of Commons Refreshment Department; how much it was 12 months ago; how much interest a day is now payable; and if he will make a statement.

The present overdraft is £1,825,627. A year ago it was £1,347,604. Daily interest is £600. The Catering Sub-Committee will shortly be making a report on the financial arrangements of the Refreshment Department. I hope this report will enable the House to come to decisions which will put the future financing of the Department on a more satisfactory long-term basis.