HC Deb 18 July 1966 vol 732 cc21-2
23. Mr. Colin Jackson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on present developments relating to economic and cultural links between Indonesia and Great Britain.

Mrs. White

I am hopeful that, as the political climate improves, economic and cultural links between Britain and Indonesia will be restored and, indeed, strengthened. The economic discussions in London last week were a first step in this direction. I am arranging for copies of the communiqué issued after the discussions to be placed in the Library.

Mr. Jackson

On the cultural side, is my hon. Friend aware that, as we are moving towards the end of confrontation, the Indonesians are now genuinely anxious to restore educational links? Would she consider as a beginning the provision of a limited number of scientific textbooks?

Mrs. White

We shall be considering matters of that kind in consultation with the Indonesian Government. As my hon. Friend will have seen, we have agreed to expand our training programme under the Colombo Plan.

34. Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what arrangements have been made following his visit to Jakarta for discussions to take place on the compensation of British companies and individuals whose property in Indonesia has been sequestrated.

Mrs. White

This matter was discussed with the Indonesian Economic Mission in London last week. There will be further discussions in Jakarta prior to negotiations between the Indonesian Government and representatives of the British interests concerned. As my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary explained to the House on 4th July, the Indonesian Foreign Minister is fully aware of the importance of this matter.

Mr. Taylor

Has any estimate been made of the assets involved, and have the Indonesian Government accepted the principle of compensation?

Mrs. White

I am not aware that any accurate estimate has yet been made of the assets, but it was made perfectly clear that this is a very important matter which must be discussed, and it was agreed that it should be discussed in Jakarta.