HC Deb 02 February 1987 vol 109 c687
48. Mr. Key

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the level and type of British assistance to Afghan refugees in Pakistan.

Mr. Chris Patten

Since the Soviet invasion in 1979 we have given over £40 million. For the current financial year, I announced an allocation of £3.5 million in Pakistan last November, and I expect total expenditure in 1986–87 to be £4.8 million. Most of our assistance is channelled through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, although various British charities have received smaller amounts. The assistance includes food and medical supplies as well as support for health and income-generating projects.

Mr. Key

I congratulate my hon. Friend on that effort, which is much appreciated, but what future is there for our aid programme in Pakistan for Afghan refugees? Does he foresee that it will continue for a number of years, bearing in mind the fluid situation that now exists in that sad country?

Mr. Patten

I wish that it were not necessary for it to continue for several years, because, like the rest of the House, and at least like my side, I hope that the Soviet forces will withdraw from Afghanistan, enabling the refugees to return to their own country. As for the existing help that we give to refugees, I assure my hon. Friend that, subject to parliamentary approval, the amount of money that we make available to them will be increased next year.

Mr. Tom Clarke

Notwithstanding our welcome of the contribution which the Minister has outlined, does he accept that in view of the potential conflict in that region resources should be used for development and not on armaments?

Mr. Patten

The money that we are providing is for development— for food aid and primary health care. That is where the money is going.