HC Deb 25 July 1961 vol 645 cc216-7
48. Mr. Brockway

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on his official discussions with Sir Donald Macintyre, Minister of Finance of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, regarding financial aid by Her Majesty's Government to the Federation.

The Economic Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Anthony Barber)

As announced in the official statement on 13th July, the United Kingdom Government have offered a loan of £5 million to the Federal Government for the purchase of United Kingdom goods and services. The loan is to provide funds towards the development programmes of the Federal and South Rhodesian Governments over the next two years.

Mr. Brockway

May I ask the hon. Gentleman whether, even at this late hour, he will whisper into the Chancellor's ear that we hope that his statement this afternoon will not mean any restriction on aid to under-developed countries?

Mr. Barber

I am sure that my right hon. and learned Friend heard that whisper

Mr. Callaghan

Does the hon. Gentleman think it fair shares to give a loan of £5 million to the Federation for two years and to restrict Tanganyika, with its much greater poverty, to £3½ million for five years?

Mr. Barber

That is another question.