§ 6. Mr. Dalyellasked the Minister of Overseas Development what aid his Department gives to the Seychelles; and how much of such aid provides help for Seychellois fishermen fishing waters round atolls.
§ Mr. OramAid to the Seychelles from my Department amounted to £476,000 in the last financial year. This was in addition to grants-in-aid of the Seychelles budget, amounting to £80,000, which were provided by the Commonwealth Office.
A fisheries expert was sent to the Seychelles in 1965 to undertake a survey of the fishing industry and I understand that his report is being studied by the Seychelles Government. No financial aid has been sought for fisheries projects.
§ Mr. DalyellDo I understand that there is no clause referring to Aldabra in any financial agreement that we have with the Seychelles?
§ Mr. OramAs I indicated in reply to a supplementary question on the last Question, none that I know of in relation to my Ministry's work.
§ Mr. BraineSince the Question refers to aid to the Seychelles, can the hon. Gentleman say what progress has been made with the negotiations which have been under way for some time about the provision of refrigeration facilities for the fishing industry?
§ Mr. OramThat is another question and I would be obliged if the hon. Gentleman would place it on the Order Paper.