§ 29. Mr. Powellasked the Secretary of State for Defence what part of the firm programmes decided on by the Government which will reduce our overseas Government expenditure, military and civil, by at least £100 million relates to defence expenditure; and in what financial year that reduction will first arise.
§ Mr. HealeyAs we must consult with our allies and Commonwealth partners before making the reductions, I cannot give any details at this stage.
§ Mr. PowellAs the Government have repeatedly stated that these plans and intentions are firm and have been worked out in detail, why, even though other Governments have to be consulted, cannot the House be told what proportion of the saving relates to civil and what proportion to defence expenditure?
§ Mr. HealeyI think that it would be quite inconsistent with normal diplomatic behaviour to give any details on these matters without assuring ourselves that the other Governments concerned are prepared to have the details given.