§ Mr. Bishopasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has received from Help the Aged regarding the low standards of living of the elderly in the Seychelles; what aid was given in the form of grants, loan and other facilities in the most recent year; and what plans he has for increasing the amount of help.
§ Mr. KershawNo representations have been received direct from Help the Aged but a few inquiries have been received from the public as a result of a recent Press advertisement. The support of the needy in Seychelles is a matter for the Seychelles Government and provision is made annually in the Seychelles' budget for social benefit payments and for the maintenance of old people's homes in Mahé. The amount expended under these headings in 1972 was £55,605. General aid for Seychelles from Britain amounted to £3.1 million in 1972–73.