HC Deb 27 April 1966 vol 727 c692
31. Mr. Ridsdale

asked the Secretary of State for Defence when he intends to visit Malta.

Mr. Healey

At an early opportunity.

Mr. Ridsdale

Could the Secretary of State go as quickly as possible, as our cuts in defence spending will have a greater effect on the Maltese economy than possibly we may realise here? A visit by him will be welcomed by the Maltese people.

Mr. Healey

I am aware of the problem, but it is not one for my Ministry, which is concerned with the security and influence of this country, and the savings which we make with the defence review are made in the interests of the people of this country. We have responsibilities to the people of Malta, of course, but those are for my right hon. Friend the Commonwealth Secretary.

Sir A. V. Harvey

Will the right hon. Gentleman investigate the conditions of service of the Royal Malta Auxiliary, who get only two-thirds of the pay and allowances of Britsih troops? The matter needs straightening out, and it is about time that something was done to put them on a par.

Mr. Healey

The hon. Member will be aware that that unit has recently had a pay increase, but I will look into the matter.