§ 57. Mr. Jannerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will increase the level of funds for the Republic of India in the forthcoming year.
§ Mr. RaisonIn the current financial year we expect to exceed last year's total of £110 million in our bilateral programme for India.
§ Mr. JannerI welcome that statement. However, is the Minister aware of the appalling floods that struck the state of Gujarat a few weeks ago, causing dreadful 599 devastation and the loss of more than 500 lives? Even if the Indian Government do not consider it proper to ask for specific assistance for the relief fund, will the British Government, bearing in mind the terrible tragedy, and the wishes of many former Gujerati citizens, who are now United Kingdom citizens, contribute to that fund without delay?
§ Mr. RaisonI am aware of the appalling havoc caused by the floods. I still believe that it would be appropriate for the Indian Government to put a request to us if they require assistance, but we are providing relief through two voluntary agencies—Oxfam and the British Red Cross.