§ 16. Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Secretary of State for Defence what proposals he has for the defence budget in the light of Government policy in Rhodesia and Southern Africa.
§ Mr. HealeyMy proposals for the defence budget are made in the light of Government policy world wide. In short, they are to achieve efficiency and economy whilst continuing to meet our defence obligations.
§ Mr. KingWould the Minister reveal to the House the full and accurate cost of maintaining aircraft carriers and other military and air force expenditure opposite Beira during the past year? Would he give an undertaking that no provision has been made for any future military adventures in that area?
§ Mr. HealeyOn the first question, all I can say is that the additional costs 490 arising specifically from the Beira patrol are estimated at about £100,000 a year.