HC Deb 12 June 1968 vol 766 c212
8. Mr. Gwilym Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what estimates he made for 1967 and 1968 of defence expenditure which was attributable to United Kingdom membership of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation; and what steps he is taking to reduce this part of defence expenditure.

Mr. Reynolds

The only readily identifiable costs directly attributable to British membership of N.A.T.O. were estimated at £14.66 million in 1967–68 and £13.43 million in 1968–69. Since these represent the net British contribution towards common expenses and infrastructure projects, their level is not determined solely by Her Majesty's Government. I can nevertheless assure my hon. Friend that we play our part in ensuring that the level of this expenditure is kept under very strict control.

Mr. Roberts

Would the Minister not agree, however, that we should have the total of these figures available by April 1969, when we have to make a vital decision? Would he accept that on that date the Government can make a major contribution to Britain's economic salvation and a major contribution to world peace by telling N.A.T.O. that we are getting out?

Mr. Reynolds

I completely disagree with the second part of my hon. Friend's question.