§ 1. Mr. Tilneyasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the hardship caused by the fall in the value of money in the last fifteen years, he will make representations to the Sudanese Government to increase the pensions of former British Members of the Sudan Civil Service to the same extent as has taken place under the United Kingdom Pension's Increase Act of 1959.
§ The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Selwyn Lloyd)Her Majesty's Government have on a number of occasions represented to the Sudan Government that it would be equitable to grant an increase in the pensions of former British members of the Sudan Civil Service. The latest approach was on 9th June when Her Majesty's Ambassador in Khartoum communicated to the Sudan Government the text of the United Kingdom Pensions (Increase) Act of 1959 with illustrative examples. I understand that the Sudan Government are still considering the matter.
§ Mr. TilneyIn view of the fact that for many decades the Sudan was a condominium run by this country without the help of Egypt, and in view of the fact that 'we scoured some of the main universities to produce some of their best graduates for this service, does my right hon. and learned Friend adhere to the view he expressed in a letter of 12th March that Her Majesty's Government have no responsibilities as regards this fine service?
§ Mr. LloydI certainly could not agree that we have no responsibilities as regards that fine service. I would rather be reminded of the whole of my letter before I make further comment.