§ 20. Mr. Alportasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement regarding the proposed revision of the Nile Waters Agreement. 1929.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydThe Nile Waters Agreement contains provision for adjustment to take account of developments in Nile conservation. It has become apparent in recent years that the time will soon come when better provision should be made for the Sudan's increasing needs. Her Majesty's Government were, therefore, glad to hear that as a result of conversations last February, agreement was reached between the Egyptian and Sudanese Governments that technical discussions should shortly take place on the sharing of waters which will become available from new works now being planned.
§ Mr. AlportIn view of British interests on behalf of Uganda in the Nile Valley, and of Ethiopia's interest in the Nile waters, will those two countries take part in any discussions or negotiations for a treaty to revise the 1929 Agreement in due course?
§ Mr. LloydWe certainly would have the right to take part in any revision of a treaty. These, however, are simply technical discussions which are within the framework of the existing Agreement.
§ Mr. FollickIn view of the importance of the Nile waters to so many countries, is any agreement anticipated with Abyssinia about Lake Tana?
§ Mr. LloydIf the hon. Gentleman will put a Question on the Order Paper on that subject, I will give him an answer.