§ 59. Mr. Chapmanasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will report progress on the construction of the thermal power plant for Bharat Aluminium Company, India and the amount of aid provided by Her Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. RaisonWork on the project is well in hand for completion on schedule in June 1987. ODA is providing grant-aid of almost £132 million, of which £33 million comes under the aid and trade provision.
§ Mr. ChapmanI welcome the progress and the planned completion of the significant project within the next 18 months. Will my right hon. Friend confirm that the project will not only bring immense benefit to Indians but will have a beneficial spin-off for British consultants working abroad and for British manufacturers? Is it not such significant and tangible projects that British overseas aid should be geared to and support?
§ Mr. RaisonMy hon. Friend is absolutely right. The project is proceeding very successfully. It will mean a valuable contribution towards the Indian power programme and also provides many jobs for British industry.