§ Mr. Croninasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs if he is aware that the United States Government is offering assistance to the Jamaican Police Force, which is having the effect of re-orientating this police force towards United States police methods and equipment; and if he will take action to ensure that British assistance and equipment will be available on comparable terms, so that British exports to Jamaica will not be prejudiced in the long term future.
§ Mr. George ThomsonYes, I am aware that the United States Government is providing assistance to the Jamaican Police Force. The British Government are also providing assistance, mostly training, at the request of the Jamaican Government. The assistance programmes of both contributing governments are closely co-ordinated. I do not think that it would be right for us to attempt to enter into competition with the United States in regard to the terms of their assistance.