§ 30. Mr. WHITEasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the present condition of the finances of Cyprus, the desirability of remitting the contribution of £10,000 to Imperial defence has been considered?
§ Dr. SHIELSThe answer is in the negative.
§ Sir ROBERT HAMILTONWould it be possible to reconsider the amount of this contribution, seeing that only half a company is kept in Cyprus, particularly when the conditions in Cyprus, compared with those of Malta, are so much different?
§ Dr. SHIELSThis contribution is the result of an arrangement made about three years ago which conferred a financial benefit on Cyprus of £32,800. The arrangement at the time was received with very great approval by the Legislature of Cyprus, and I think that the hon. Gentleman will agree that this is a difficult time in which to consider an increase.
§ Mr. McSHANEAs at least 50 per cent. of the revenue of the country is spent on salaries, could not the hon. Gentleman make the most effective saving there?