HC Deb 02 June 1954 vol 528 cc1264-5
20. Mr. Grimond

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the proposals of the Powers interested in South-East Asia for economic aid to the area.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

The countries of South-East Asia are already receiving economic aid through the United Nations and under the Colombo plan. I am not aware that the Powers interested in the area are at present considering any fresh proposals for further aid.

Mr. Grimond

Will the Minister ensure, while discussions are going on among the Western Powers, that the fact is stressed that we are not only concerned about the defence of South-East Asia, but, as he has said, already we are giving great economic and technical aid and are prepared to give more?

Mr. Lloyd

I can assure the hon. Member that Her Majesty's Government appreciate the importance of the economic factors in the general settlement.