§ 8. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations, in view of the policy of Her Majesty's Government to curtail overseas aid, if he has consulted with Commonwealth countries in need of, or anticipating further, technical and financial aid for the development of their countries in respect of this decision and the reason for it.
§ Mr. BraineIt is not the policy of Her Majesty's Government to curtail the overseas aid. Assistance from British Government funds to developing countries amounted to £150 million in 1960, and it is expected to increase in 1961. What we can afford to do, however, must be determined within the limits imposed by this country's economic position, and the total amount of our aid commitments is kept under careful review.
§ Mr. SorensenWas the recent statement which appeared in the Press that the Government were contemplating restricting aid of this kind quite incorrect?
§ Mr. SpeakerThe Minister cannot be asked to deal with Press statements for which he is not responsible.
§ Mr. SorensenMay I change my supplementary question a little and ask about a statement made by a Government Minister?
§ Mr. BraineThe hon. Gentleman has somewhat shifted his ground. I prefer to stick to the words which I have given to the House to the effect that it is not the policy of Her Majesty's Government to curtail overseas aid and that the sum for 1960 is expected to be increased in 1961.