HC Deb 25 February 1969 vol 778 c1256
8. Sir R. Russell

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what is the total amount of aid being given to Singapore in the current financial year; and how much is envisaged in the next two years.

Mr. Prentice

I estimate that in the current financial year Singapore will receive in normal and special British aid a total of £5.5 million, including £2.8 million for defence aid. This total is expected to increase to between £10 million and £11 million in each of the financial years 1969–70 and 1970–71.

Sir R. Russell

What saving does the right hon. Gentleman think there will be on the withdrawal of defence from Singapore, if aid is to cost this much more?

Mr. Prentice

The overall saving from withdrawing the forces from Singapore will be much larger than the total of special aid to Singapore, which is related to the same process.