HC Deb 21 May 1984 vol 60 cc677-8
29. Mr. Bowen Wells

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he proposes to take to continue his efforts to ensure that aid is used by host countries for developmentally sound purposes.

The Minister for Overseas Development (Mr. Timothy Raison)

All spending proposals in my Department are carefully appraised to ensure that they can produce a satisfactory return to the host country and have a positive impact on their development. Monitoring and evaluation procedures have recently been strengthened. Efforts are being made to achieve better co-ordination between donors and with recipient Governments.

Mr. Wells

Does my right hon. Friend agree with the report of the Independent Group on British Aid that he is sacrificing the quality of British aid by giving greater weight to Britain's commercial and industrial need?

Mr. Raison

No, Sir, I do not believe that quality is being sacrificed for Britain's commercial interests. The bulk of our aid goes to the poorer countries, where it is needed most. Its use continues to be fully appraised to make sure that its development impact is satisfactory.

Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

Is my right hon. Friend aware that some countries, such as Zambia, accept foreign aid but refuse to remit money owing to individuals who have left the country? Will he impress on these Governments that, unless they abide by international commitments, they cannot expect to continue to be recipients of our foreign aid?

Mr. Raison

We are always ready to press Governments to pay out moneys which they should pay, but I am reluctant to use the foreign aid programme as a means of bringing that about.

Mr. Deakins

Is there not a risk that the aid for trade provision will be used by some developing countries for purposes other than those that are developmentally sound, at the behest of British exporters?

Mr. Raison

It is conceivable that there could be a risk, but it is for my Department to approve all aid and trade provision allocations, and we look at the developmental considerations carefully.