Bangladesh (Hansard, 31 October 1979)

§ 43 Mr. Michael Martin
asked the Lord Privy Seal what cuts he proposes in the aid programme to Bangladesh.

§ Mr. Neil Marten
I refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Waltham Forest (Mr. Deakins).

§ Mr. Michael Martin
Is the Minister aware that all the major Christian denominations in Scotland are compiling a petition urging the Government to raise their overseas aid figure to 0.7 per cent. of the gross national product to help such countries as Bangladesh? Will the Minister give the House an assurance that he will seriously consider the petition when he is presented with it?

§ Mr. Neil Marten
Yes, Sir.

§ Mr. John Townend
Does my hon. Friend agree that it would be a good idea to reduce aid to countries that are spending excessive amounts on nuclear development especially those that are spending this money to get nuclear power?

§ Mr. Neil Marten
I think that that is one of the factors that should be taken into account.