HC Deb 13 July 1960 vol 626 cc1367-8
2. Mr. Wall

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty what has been the cost to the Admiralty of maintaining ships and establishments in Malta during each of the past five years.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

Expenditure by the Admiralty in Malta during the last five financial years is estimated very roughly at £9.5 million, £11 million, £11 million, £11.5 million and, last year, £12 million.

Mr. Wall

Does my right hon. Friend agree that these figures illustrate that, even in these days, the defence forces make a great contribution to the economy of Malta? Can he say whether the figures that he has given represent Admiralty expenditure only?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

Yes; we are making an enormous contribution to the economy and well-being of Malta. That is why the standard of living in the island is immeasurably higher than in other Mediterranean countries. I would add that the figures I gave are in addition to the £5.8 million of financial aid announced by the Secretary of State for the Colonies, and also the £32.25 million development plan already announced by the Secretary of State.