§ 1. Mr. Tilneyasked the Minister of Overseas Development whether the termination of the aid programmes to Tanzania applies also to the operations of the Commonwealth Development Corporation; and what directions he has given to the Corporation with regard to further investment by the Commonwealth Development Corporation in that country.
§ The Minister of Overseas Development (Mr. Reg Prentice)I understand that the Commonwealth Development Corporation has no new projects under consideration which are likely to involve investment in Tanzania in the near future. I have given no directions on this matter, but the Corporation has undertaken to consult me about any new projects in Tanzania.
§ Mr. TilneyWhile I welcome that what has been started it is presumably the purpose of the Minister to continue, will the right hon. Gentleman see that no new project is started while we have our difficulties with Tanzania?
§ Mr. PrenticeThat is correct. Any project that has been started will continue, but I would find it difficult in present circumstances to agree that the Corporation should begin new investments in Tanzian.
§ Mr. JuddWould not my right hon. Friend agree that the Arusha Declaration marked a significant breakthrough in concepts about development with its emphasis on self-reliance and its economic importance; and would he not agree that 1638 for this reason Tanzania deserves priority in our aid programmes?
§ Mr. PrenticeI agree with my hon. Friend's views about the Arusha Declaration, but the subject of the breaking off of aid to Tanzania arises on a later Question.