§ 8. Mr. David Steelasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he has received a copy of the report of the United Nations Security Council special mission established under Resolution 326 (1973); and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Alec Douglas-HomeYes, Sir. The report has reached me.
§ Mr. SteelIn view of the loyalty which Zambia has shown to our policy of sanctions, is the Foreign Secretary able to say yet what steps the Government intend to take in view of the report's conclusion that only adequate and timely assistance will make it possible for the Zambian economy to continue developing in a normal fashion? Can he yet add to the announcement made last month of £1 million aid for road transport?
§ Sir Alec Douglas-HomeI cannot add to that as yet, but my right hon. Friend the Minister for Overseas Development has been in Zambia and we are considering development schemes. It must be remembered that most other countries engaged in this matter of trying to help Zambia are starting from scratch. We do not, of course. In addition to the £1 million for road transport, which was given because the Zambians said this was a matter of particular concern, we provide £7 million a year for technical development and we are subscribing in a big way 1305 to the International Bank. I will keep the hon. Member informed of any projects, however.