HC Deb 09 July 1970 vol 803 cc819-20
6. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Overseas Development whether he will make a statement on Her Majesty's Government's policy in relation to the Pearson and Jackson Reports.

Mr. Wood

The Government consider that the Pearson Report is an extremely important policy document in the field of international development and intend to take full account of its recommendations in deciding their own policies. The Government also welcome, in general, the findings of the Jackson Capacity Study and are seeking international agreement on giving effect to them.

Mr. Blenkinsop

While welcoming that Answer as far as it goes, and welcoming the right hon. Gentleman's appointment to his present office, may I ask whether he could do something to help in re-establishing the Specialist Committee of the House on Overseas Aid, which did valuable work in helping to interpret both these Reports?

Mr. Wood

I have no wish, particularly after the hon. Member's kind remarks, to try to dodge his question, but I think he will find that it must be directed elsewhere.

Mr. Tilney

Will my right hon. Friend consider the importance of private enterprise investment in developing countries and the need for that investment to be insured against political risks?

Mr. Wood

Yes, Sir. That is a most important matter which we must consider.

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