§ 20. Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Minister of Overseas Development what technical or other assistance is being given to the Eastern Aden protectorate.
§ Mr. BottomleyTechnical assistance is given in the form of scholarships and training courses in the United Kingdom, and of the services from time to time of British experts and consultants. Other assistance includes the provision of British advisory staff and services, subsidies to the State Governments for administrative and other purposes, and Colonial Development and Welfare grants 718 which are made available to the High Commissioner for the economic and social development of the area.
§ Mr. KingWould the Minister concede that the poverty and isolation of this area make the problem of Aden, which is already complex enough, more complex still? Would he therefore give additional priority and additional aid beyond that which he has already mentioned?
§ Mr. BottomleyNo, I cannot say that I will give additional aid. Every sympathy is extended because of the considerations which the hon. Gentleman has mentioned.