§ 47. Mr. Deakinsasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what are the implications for his Department's policy on development of the conclusions of the United Nations Nairobi conference set out in forward-looking strategies for the advancement of women.
§ Mr. RaisonMy Department has long sought to ensure that the interests of women are taken into account throughout the development process. The conclusions of Nairobi, which were accepted by consensus, require implementation by donors and recipients alike. We are doing our full part through the aid programme.
§ Mr. DeakinsAre not special efforts required from the right hon. Gentleman's Department, particularly in view of the conclusions of the Nairobi conference, which, I am happy to say, are now available in the Vote Office for hon. Members? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, for example, in Africa women do most of the work, including about 90 per cent. of the agricultural work? Surely that should be taken into account in considering aid projects in that part of the world?
§ Mr. RaisonThe hon. Gentleman is right. It is evident that women in Africa and elsewhere in the world have an enormous role. I can claim that my Department has long recognised that role. In assessing projects, we look carefully at their likely impact on women in the area. I believe that we have a good record. I propose to make a grant of £50,000 in the next financial year to the United Nations development fund for women, which I believe will be very welcome.