HC Deb 29 June 1967 vol 749 cc719-20
6. Mr. Fisher

asked the Minister of Overseas Development if he will increase aid to St. Kitts for the specific purpose of economic development in Nevis and Anguilla.

Mr. Oram

I am sorry that I cannot increase the amount of aid already promised to St. Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla.

Mr. Fisher

Bearing in mind that many of the political frustrations in these two islands, as we have seen recently, may well be due to the lack of basic economic facilities for tourism, such as water, electricity, roads and the rest, will not the hon. Gentleman look into the matter again?

Mr. Oram

We are aware of the difficulties here, and we are prepared to discuss with the State Government the purposes to which our aid is put. We can certainly ask them to ensure that the needs of Anguilla are not overlooked.

Mr. Wood

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the concern about the situation in Anguilla? Is it not difficult to see how, in the existing circumstances, any aid given to the St. Kitts Government will reach the island of Anguilla?

Mr. Oram

The Government of St. Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla are responsible for their own financial affairs. I have said that we are willing to take the matter up with them, but I do not think that we can do more.