HC Deb 18 November 1959 vol 613 cc1158-9
12. Mr. Oram

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what offers of credit were made by Her Majesty's Government to Turkey in connection with building a new water supply for Ankara; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. R. Allan

None, Sir.

Mr. Oram

But is the hon. Gentleman aware of the report that the Soviet Union has offered a long-term credit of £20 million for this purpose, and that it is said that offers from Western countries, including Great Britain, are distinctly unfavourable, stiffer, and unattractive? Why is it that we cannot match the terms of the Soviet Union in such aid to under-developed countries?

Mr. Allan

The Turkish Government made no request to Her Majesty's Government for help with the Ankara scheme. I have seen reports of the Russian offer but I have no information to confirm it, or to the effect that it has been accepted. We are channelling very considerable aid to Turkey through our contribution to the O.E.E.C. aid scheme.