3. Mr. Gresham Cookeasked the Minister of Overseas Development what steps she is taking to ensure that the maximum amount of technological assistance from British sources is given in connection with potential road development in under-developed territories.
§ Mrs. CastleI agree with the hon. Member's implication that technological assistance from Britain is important to road development in underdeveloped countries, and my Department continually seeks ways of increasing the already considerable flow of this assistance.
Mr. Gresham CookeWill the right hon. Lady bear in mind not only that a road opens up the country and brings trade but, very often, British consultants and British machinery can follow in the wake of it? Also, in the light of all the promises in the Labour Party manifesto, will the right hon. Lady say how much more is to be done this year?
§ Mrs. CastleI agree that roads open up a developing country, and assistance in this respect forms an important part of our technical assistance programmes. We shall continue to pursue them.
§ Mr. SnowIs my right hon. Friend prepared to encourage assistance from manufacturers in this country, for instance, motor car manufacturers, who might contribute towards the road development programme?
§ Mrs. CastleAll contributions from those sources would be very welcome.