HC Deb 22 February 1966 vol 725 c231
Q5. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the discontinuation of British aid to African States giving facilities for the subversion of other African States and territories, contrary to the principle of the Commonwealth, the United Nations and the Organisation of African Unity.

Mr. George Brown

I have been asked to reply.

As my right hon. Friend indicated on 1st February, in general we consider it unprofitable to attach specific political conditions to our aid.

Mr. Biggs-Davison

Do not the Government realise that British aid is, in certain cases, freeing financial resources in certain African States for the subversion of other African territories and British interests; and will Her Majesty's Government think again on this issue?

Mr. Brown

Any attempt to link economic aid, which has to do with humanitarian conditions as well as necessary economic development, with political conditions would be a very great mistake.

Mr. Heath

I think that we take the same view as the Government in that no action should be taken with undue haste. However, is the First Secretary saying that when countries have broken off diplomatic relations with us and continue to refuse to regain diplomatic relations, we should then treat them in exactly the same way as friendly countries and other members of the Commonwealth with regard to aid?

Mr. Brown

I think that, at the moment, it is wise to go on as we are doing.

Mr. Hugh Fraser

In view of the humanitarian aims mentioned by the right hon. Gentleman, would he now agree that there should be a restoration of the cut in missionary remittances, from 75 per cent. to 100 per cent., and that the figure should be even higher than that?

Hon. Members

Answer.