HC Deb 13 December 1966 vol 738 cc232-4
25. Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement on his most recent visit to the Far East, giving details of who accompanied him, the countries visited, the total costs involved, the period of the visit and dates; why this visit was made; and why the activities which he has now carried out could not have been carried out during the period of 29th July to 3rd September, 1966, when he was last on a visit to these countries.

Mr. Frederick Lee

I visited Hong Kong from 29th November to 6th December, accompanied by three officials from my own Department and a representative each from the Treasury and the Ministry of Defence. The total costs were £3,860 approximately. I went to conclude discussions on the Hong Kong defence contribution which were started on my earlier visit. We reached an understanding, and I will make a statement as soon as possible.

Mr. Lewis

Could my right hon. Friend explain why on his previous visit the cost was £6,000 when he had fewer officials with him, whereas his last visit cost about £1,500 for himself? Will he say how much was expended on himself and how much on the officials? Did he need all those officials?

Mr. Lee

If my hon. Friend, who has a thirst for knowledge on these matters, will put down a Question to that effect, I will try to answer it.

Mr. Rankin

Is it a fact that the purpose of my right hon. Friend's visit to Hong Kong was to get the Governor to maintain an army there which he does not want to have in order to maintain in Hong Kong conditions about which we are rightly protesting in Rhodesia?

Mr. Lee

No, Sir.

Mr. Wood

While not wishing to interfere in this domestic controversy, would the right hon. Gentleman say when he will be able to make his rather more important statement on Hong Kong?

Mr. Lee

I am hoping to do so before the House rises for the Christmas Recess. There is some doubt, but I will try hard to make my statement before then.

Mr. Royle

Why has it taken the right hon. Gentleman so long to make his statement? Is he aware that some of my hon. Friends and I had Questions to him on this issue but have delayed them until next Tuesday? Is he saying that he will be unable to make this important statement next Tuesday?

Mr. Lee

I did not say that I would not be able to make it. I said that I would try very hard indeed to do so.