§ Q9. Sir C. Osborneasked the Prime Minister how much aid to underdeveloped countries has been given in the form of arms, and how much in other forms, for each of the last three years; to what extent the recipient countries decide whether they will have arms or other goods; and to what extent it will be Government policy to give arms in future.
§ The Prime MinisterMilitary aid disbursements (including not only equipment but military services e.g. training in this country and overseas, and financial aid for military purposes) were: £30.5 million in 1964, £19.4 million in 1965, and £20.1 million in 1966. Official economic aid disbursements were £193 million in 1964, £195.7 million in 1965 and £209.1 million in 1966. The two types of aid are not alternatives but are given for different reasons on different criteria. Military Aid in the form of arms will continue to be given so long as it is likely to be mutually beneficial. Her Majesty's Government would of course welcome international agreement to control the traffic in arms.