HC Deb 11 July 1979 vol 970 cc467-8
46. Mr. Brocklebank-Fowler

asked the Lord Privy Seal what consideration he has given to continuing financial support for voluntary organisations with projects in the developing world.

The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Mr. Neil Marten)

I intend to continue the joint funding scheme for overseas projects carried out by British voluntary organisations.

Mr. Brocklebank-Fowler

I thank my hon. Friend for that reply. However, has he had time to read the report of the Select Committee on India, which shows that there is immense scope for increased effective activity by voluntary organisations in that country? Will he discuss with those organisations the means whereby they can be given additional Government support?

Mr. Marten

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Sever

Does the hon. Gentleman accept the argument that if a nation is to be judged on whether it is a member of a civilised society, one of the bench marks for that judgment is the way in which it assists those nations which are less fortunate than itself? Does he agree that the withdrawal of money from overseas aid is thoroughly reprehensible, and that it should be reinstated?

Mr. Marten

There has been no withdrawal of overseas aid. The projected amount for the current year has been reduced, but the volume of aid has been increased by 2 per cent.

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

Is my hon. Friend aware that one of the most economic ways to give aid to the developing world is to channel funds through voluntary organisations? Those organisations are held in considerable respect in many countries within the developing world. Will he take the point on board to ensure that whatever money and funds are available from the Government for overseas aid will be channelled in a higher percentage through the voluntary organisations? They have the technical know-how and ability to give great assistance to those countries. I have a vested interest, and I refer particularly to the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, which carries out valuable work in many developing countries.

Mr. Marten

My hon. Friend has stated clearly Conservative policy on the use of voluntary agencies.

Mr. Dalyell

Does the Minister recollect that in response to a letter from four of my hon. Friends and myself about the appalling situation in Kampuchea he said that the British Government could do virtually nothing to help because of the recognition problem? Will anything be done to help Kampuchea, through voluntary organisations?

Mr. Marten

Yes, Sir. That matter is being considered. Help will probably be provided through the Red Cross.

Mr. Budgen

Does my hon. Friend agree that the best way to help the Third world is not through increased financial support but by conducting freer trade? Will he condemn the practice by which the EEC dumps on world markets over-subsidised primary products?

Mr. Marten

I should like to look into the latter point that my hon. Friend makes.

Mr. McElhone

In any consideration by the Government of financial support to voluntary organisations, will Chile be included? Will the hon. Gentleman assure the House that the £1 million scheme run by OXFAM, Christian Aid and other charities, which was financed by his Department, to help the poorest in Chile will continue?

Mr. Marten

Yes, Sir.