HC Deb 17 April 1967 vol 745 cc79-80
19. Mr. Dewar

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement on the recent Amsterdam talks on Indonesian financial problems.

Mr. William Rodgers

At these talks, which took place on 13th and 24th of February, there was a comprehensive review of Indonesia's financial situation. We are at present considering whether there is anything further we can do to assist the Indonesian Government in their economic recovery programme.

Mr. Dewar

While appreciating the exploratory nature of the talks, may I ask my hon. Friend to bear in mind the important contribution that civil aid from Britain might make to Indonesia and to the stability of the area, quite apart from the valuable return in trade which might also result?

Mr. Rodgers

As my hon. Friend knows, the Government gave Indonesia a grant of £1 million to help the new Government last year, and we have also restored the technical assistance programme under the Colombo Plan. We will do all in our means to help.

Mr. Dalyell

Will the Foreign Office consider the practical proposal and use its influence on other Governments to push forward the proposals to supply trucks and tractors from the British Motor Corporation?

Mr. Rodgers

We shall play our part in trying to encourage trade, but there are serious problems that the Indonesian Government have to overcome before there can be the exchanges that we would like to see.