§ 34. Mr. Wingfield Digbyasked the Secretary of State for Defence what defence agreement exists with the Malagasy Republic; when it was published; and what has been the total cost to Defence Votes of operating from Majunga and other places in Malagasy during the last year.
§ Mr. HealeyWe have no defence agreement with the Malagasy Republic. By arrangement with the Malagasy Government Royal Air Force Shackletons are undertaking patrols from Majunga in pursuance of the Security Council resolution of 9th April, 1966. The additional cost to Defence Votes of operating from Majunga during the 12-month period which has so far elapsed is about £175,000.
§ Mr. DigbyWould it not have been more tactful to approach the French Government in the first place, in view of its defence agreement with this Republic, rather than annoy it at a critical time in our relations with France?
§ Mr. HealeyThe hon. Gentleman must recognise that the Malagasy Republic is an independent State.