§ 47. Mr. David Steelasked the Minister of Overseas Development whether the conference to discuss the future finance of Swaziland will be held prior to the granting of independence on 6th September.
§ The Minister of Overseas Development (Mr. Reg Prentice)No, Sir. With the agreement of the Government of Swaziland, it is proposed to hold the conference in the autumn after independence✶ but officials of my Department are having preliminary talks in Swaziland this month.
§ Mr. SteelIs this not an unusual step to take? In view of the isolated situation of Swaziland, surely financial arrangements should be known before independence is granted.
§ Mr. PrenticeThis procedure has been followed in a number of recent cases. Aid this year to Swaziland will cover the immediate post-independence period, and talks on aid, which will take place in the autumn, will follow preparation of the development plan of the Swaziland Government for the period ahead.