HC Deb 18 July 1968 vol 768 cc1638-9
3. Mr. Turton

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what was the value of aid received in Anguilla in the financial year ended 31st March, 1968; to whom it was disbursed; and on what object it was spent.

4. Mr. Marten

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what aid has been spent in the island of Anguilla in the last 12 months.

Mr. Oram

In the financial year 1967– 68 almost £30,000 was spent on aid projects in Anguilla, including school buildings and furniture, medical equipment for the island's hospital work on the airstrip. Most of this sum was paid to the Crown Agents for reimbursement of suppliers on behalf of Anguilla; the remainder was paid to the Senior British Official in Anguilla. In addition, a small sum was issued to the St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla Government to cover expenditure incurred under schemes for Anguilla approved in earlier years. In the current financial year a further £10,000 has so far been spent on school equipment and the airstrip.

Mr. Turton

As there is some concern whether this aid is really reaching Anguilla in the present circumstances, will the Minister consider using the services of Mr. Lee, who is representing us there?

Mr. Oram

The arrangements for our aid to Anguilla are in accordance with the agreement reached after the visit of my hon. Friend the Member for Birmingham, Northfield (Mr. Chapman) and the hon. Member for Surbiton (Mr. Fisher), and I have no reason to believe that the arrangements are not working satisfactorily.

Mr. Marten

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the aid about which he is speaking is not grant in aid but is of a budgetary nature, and it is that aid that is being blocked in St. Kitts? What do the Government intend to do about that type of aid, and how long do they reckon things can go on without this aid getting through?

Mr. Oram

The hon. Gentleman is correct about the budgetary aid, but it is still our hope that the St. Kitts Government will make some provision for the current costs of local government in Anguilla.