§ 50. Mr. Wall asked the President of the Board of Trade what assistance he is making available to British companies in tendering for the Kafue hydroelectric project worth £25 million in Zambia, for the proposed fertiliser and explosive factory and for the operation of Zambian Airways.
§ Mr. DarlingI am not aware that tenders have been invited for any of these projects. The Board of Trade's export promotion services, and where appropriate those of the Export Credits Guarantee Department, are available for interested British companies.
§ Mr. WallIs the Minister aware that during the past year major Zambian contracts have gone to American, Japanese, French and Italian firms, at a time when the British taxpayer has been supporting the Zambian economy to the tune of £15 million? Will he see what he can do to improve the competitiveness of British firms in Zambia, and also to discourage anti-British feeling there?
§ Mr. DarlingWe will certainly do all that we possibly can to help British firms to obtain contracts in Zambia. Aid to many countries involves contracts being given to the countries providing the aid, which is one of the factors that we have to take into account. We will certainly take into consideration all the points that the hon. Member has raised.
§ Mr. James JohnsonIs the Minister aware that many of us on the benches behind him thought that the Kafue scheme of 10 years ago was a better project, than Kariba? Will he do his best 484 to help the Zambian Government in this matter?
§ Mr. DarlingI am aware of what my hon. Friend has said.