HC Deb 30 November 1965 vol 721 cc1212-3
12. Sir J. Smyth

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what steps she is taking to enable India and Pakistan to avert the famine which they both face as a result of their recent hostilities.

Mrs. Castle

I believe that the hon. and gallant Member is mistaken in thinking the shortages of food grains reported to be likely in India would be to any significant extent due to the recent hostilities. I have seen no reports of any likelihood of shortages in Pakistan. Neither Government has sought any special assistance from us on this account, but I should naturally be very ready to consider requests that a greater proportion of the technical or capital assistance we give should be devoted to schemes of agricultural improvement.

Sir J. Smyth

Does the right hon. Lady realise that the general opinion is that as a result of the bad monsoon and the war between India and Pakistan, there will be a very severe famine in India during the coming winter, and will she give her very earnest attention to trying to prevent such a catastrophe?

Mrs. Castle

We are all deeply concerned about the food situation and, as I have said, I am glad to know that India's annual plan for 1966–67 puts greater emphasis on agriculture.