HC Deb 25 June 1997 vol 296 cc836-7
13. Mr. Hope

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent discussions she has had with non-governmental organisations on educating the public about development issues. [3867]

Clare Short

I am reviewing the Department's communications so that we can increase public understanding and support for our strategies for poverty elimination. I intend to consult widely on the forthcoming White Paper, which the House will debate on Tuesday.

Mr. Hope

I thank my right hon. Friend for that reply. Is she aware that the global youthwork advisory service is to be launched next week in the House of Commons? Does she agree that it is important to raise young people's awareness of the globalised world and its effect on their lives, and of how their choices and behaviour affect the world around them?

Clare Short

I agree with my hon. Friend completely. When I visit schools and colleges I find that such global issues concern young people more than any other political issue. As I keep saying, the reality is that we could halve world poverty by 2015 if we all worked at it. We must get everyone committed to that aim and make people optimistic about what can be achieved. Young people can give the lead on that, and we want to work with them to ensure that they do.

Back to