§ 7. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Common wealth Affairs if he will make a statement on his official visit to Afghanistan.
§ Sir Alec Douglas-HomeMy visit to Afghanistan from 5th to 6th July was both interesting and valuable. I had an audience with His Majesty King Zahir Shah and had talks with the Prime Minister, Dr. Zahir, and the Foreign Minister, Mr. Shafiq. Our talks included the situation in the subcontinent and the economy of Afghanistan.
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerWill my right hon. Friend see whether there are any projects which his right hon. Friend the Minister for Overseas Development might investigate and possibly co-ordinate with similar projects in Iran and Pakistan?
§ Sir Alec Douglas-HomeYes, Sir. We have done quite a lot in the way of economic assistance and development aid for Afghanistan. We have agreed to provide a loan of up to £240,000 for new animal feed plant and £100,000 worth of water pumps and well-drilling equipment which will be delivered shortly. We propose to undertake a £100,000 hydro-geological survey of the Hari Rud basin. There are a number of projects for which aid can properly be used and they are going along adequately.