HC Deb 16 March 1967 vol 743 c698
21. Mr. Goodhew

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what he estimates will be the total economic aid, net of amortisation and interest, to Ghana in the financial year 1966–67.

Mr. Oram

British official economic aid is expected to amount to about £406,000 net.

Mr. Goodhew

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this is an encouraging sign and that there are those of us in the House who feel that now that we have a stable and sensible Government in Ghana, there is ample opportunity for increasing this aid, which in 1964–65 was as much as £2 million?

Mr. Oram

There will be talks between the two Governments about possible increases in aid. At the moment, there is an undrawn balance of the loan for the Volta scheme which will now not be required for that purpose, but discussions between the two Governments will be necessary about alternative uses.