HC Deb 29 November 1966 vol 737 cc181-2
1. Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will give a detailed breakdown of the proposed £100 million reduction in Government overseas expenditure announced on 20th July; and if he is satisfied that this will be possible for 1967–68.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. James Callaghan)

The reductions involve consultations with other Governments and it would be prejudicial to disclose our proposals. On progress in securing the reductions I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member on 31st October.£[Vol. 735, c. 32.]

Mr. Stratton Mills

Surely the Chancellor ought to be able to give more details to the House. Does he recall that in July the Prime Minister said that the proposals for the reduction of £100 million had been carefully formulated? Cannot the right hon. Gentleman go a little further in defining the percentages between defence, aid and diplomatic services?

Mr. Callaghan

I should like to give the House as much information on this matter as possible, but, as I have said, it involves negotiations with other Governments and where defence expenditure is involved we have to be very careful to ensure that relations with other Governments are not disturbed by premature disclosure of what is taking place.

Mr. Hooley

Approximately what amount of this £100 million is represented by cuts in aid to developing countries?

Mr. Callaghan

I could not say without notice. I should be glad if my hon. Friend would put down a Question.

Mrs. Thatcher

When will the right hon. Gentleman be in a position to give firm information to the House, bearing in mind that the Prime Minister said that the programmes then were quite firm and were to take effect next year?

Mr. Callaghan

The programmes are quite firm. I would hope to be able to give information, or my right hon. Friends will, when discussions with other Governments are completed, and I think that that is when——

Mrs. Thatcher

When?

Mr. Callaghan

That depends on the progress of the negotiations. I will certainly give the information as soon as possible. I can promise the hon. Lady that I am very much in earnest about this.