§ Q9. Mr. Staintonasked the Prime Minister (1) what is the estimated cost for this year of the total British support effort in connection with the defence of Malaysia; and whether he is satisfied that this expenditure is not disproportionate to that of the other countries engaged in the confrontation with Indonesia;
(2) if he is satisfied that the commitment for British forces in Malaysia is not disproportionate to that of the other 49W countries engaged in the confrontation with Indonesia; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterThe estimated extra cost of the British support effort this year related to the defence of Malaysia is about £5 million.
I am satisfied that this expenditure and the commitment of our forces is necessary for the discharge of our obligations under the Anglo-Malaysian Defence Agreement.