HC Deb 27 November 1969 vol 792 cc600-1
22. Mr. Doig

asked the Minister of Overseas Development if the £8 million development loan offered to the Zambian Government has been accepted by them; and what were the terms for repayment.

Mrs. Hart

The offer of a loan has been accepted, but the terms of repayment have not yet been settled.

Mr. Doig

Will my right hon. Friend make sure that the terms for repayment are reasonable, otherwise it will put too great a strain on a country which in some ways is fighting our battle?

Mrs. Hart

My hon. Friend will be aware of my own past great concern about these matters in a former capacity. In the discussions that we are having with the Zambian Government, it will be our endeavour to reach a very fair settlement.

Mr. Goodhew

Is the right hon. Lady aware that the best way in which Her Majesty's Government can help the Zambian economy and the British economy is by restoring normal relations with Rhodesia?

Mrs. Hart

I did not expect that the hon. Gentleman would agree with what I said on this issue.