§ 73. Dr. Michael ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what nonfinancial assistance has been given to Nepal during the last 12 months.
§ Mrs. ChalkerWe provided over £7 million in non-financial assistance to Nepal in 1988–89, the last full financial year for which figures are available. This covered training awards in Britain, and technical co-operation which included assistance with forestry, agriculture, education, water and sanitation and roads.
§ Dr. ClarkIs my right hon. Friend aware that, owing to the trade and transit dispute between Nepal and India, there is a considerable shortage of fuel for cooking and heating? Is she aware that, without petroleum products, there is a great danger of an acceleration in the deforestation which is already a cause of concern? What can we do to help to ensure that Nepal receives more petroleum products in the short term?
§ Mrs. ChalkerWe discussed with the Nepalese Government an airlift of fuel, but together we concluded 18 that their stocks of fuel are adequate for the time being. We are watching the position. As for Nepal's environmental needs, we share its concern over the deforestation of the hills. That is why we are providing £2.9 million to accelerate research that will lead to the introduction of new species of trees to assist the area. A further £3.9 million is to be made available for the improvement and management of community forest areas.