HC Deb 05 May 1969 vol 783 c20
23. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans he has for improving links between Her Majesty's Government and the Governments of dependent and associated states of the Commonwealth.

Mr. Whitlock

We continue to maintain the closest contact with dependent territories through their Governors or Administrators, and through visits in both directions at Ministerial and official levels. Our contacts with the Associated States are maintained through the British Government Representative in Castries, St. Lucia. This arrangement has been in existence for only two years and we are naturally keeping it under review.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

Will the Minister take another personal look at the relatively small requirements of personnel and assistance for which these still dependent territories are asking? Will he particularly look at the Finance Bill, which will be coming before the House, to see whether investment from this country is not further discouraged by this action?

Mr. Whitlock

All possibilities for assisting these smaller territories are now under deep discussion.