§ Q5. Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Prime Minister how many Ministers have had responsibility for Aden since 1964; and for how many months each of those Ministers exercised that responsibility.
§ The Prime MinisterFive, Sir; for approximately fourteen months, four months, one month, three months and four months.
§ Mr. KingUnfortunately—I make no complaint about this aspect—Aden is governed now by the military and the police, and there are detainees there without trial, about whom there have been complaints, which. I am sure, are untrue. But, granted that situation, is it not most unfortunate to chop and change Ministers in this manner?
§ The Prime MinisterI think that it was right, although it was a difficult decision, 661 to transfer responsibility from the Colonial Office to the Foreign Office. I am very well aware that there is this special problem arising out of the difficulties and the subversion which we have had to face in Aden, as our predecessors did. I think that one of my right hon. Friends may have something to say further on the question of detainees in the very near future.
§ Mr. RoseIs my right hon. Friend aware that the most satisfactory position will be reached when no Minister has responsibility for Aden? Will he say when the House can expect a statement with regard to the visit of Mr. Bowen and his report on the treatment of detainees in Aden?
§ The Prime MinisterI should require notice to say when, but I think that my right hon. Friend will be able to make a statement to the House quite soon. I am sorry that I have not got the date before me.