HC Deb 23 June 1986 vol 100 cc18-20
42. Mr. Tony Lloyd

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent representations he has received on the issue of tropical deforestation.

Mr. Raison

Several hon. Members have written to me or tabled questions in the House. We have also received representations from a number of individuals and organisations, including Friends of the Earth and the International Institute for Environment and Development.

Mr. Lloyd

Given the widespread international concern about deforestation of tropical forests, what is the Government's attitude to giving practical help, and what help are they giving to nations, such as Indonesia, 'which depend upon the cash generated from the sale of such timbers? What substitution are the British Government prepared to allow to compensate for that factor?

Mr. Raison

We are ready to give practical help to those countries that ask us to do so. For example, we are giving help in valuable ways to Ghana, Sudan, India, Somalia and other countries.

Mr. Cecil Franks (Barrow and Furness)

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker

Order. Does this arise out of questions?

Mr. Franks

No.

Mr. Speaker

Then I shall take it at the usual time, after the statement.

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