§ 52. Mr. Welshasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs by what percentage the United Kingdom's overseas aid in 1982–83 is expected to differ from that in 1981–82.
§ Mr. Neil MartenIt is expected to decrease by about 2 per cent. in cash terms.
§ 56. Mr. Tilleyasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if Her Majesty's Government will increase their provision of overseas development aid to meet representations made at the United Nations special session on disarmament.
§ Mr. Neil MartenI am of course aware of the wish to switch resources from defence spending to aid. But, even if the disarmament negotiations succeed, the fact remains that there will be many competing claims on any resources realised. Our aid programme remains meanwhile a substantial one.