asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what further financial assistance he proposes to give to Malta to assist with the development plan and to absorb the increasing numbers being discharged by the defence forces.

The Government of Malta have recently drawn up a development plan for the years 1964 to 1969. This is now being studied.

Would not my right hon. Friend agree that, although industrialisation of Malta is proceeding satisfactorily, the number of jobs created will not equal the number of people discharged by Her Majesty's Forces? Could he say whether the British Government will contribute generously to the five-year plan he has just mentioned?

Financial talks with the Government of Malta are due to begin shortly.