HC Deb 28 January 1998 vol 305 cc331-2
2. Mr. Godman

When she last met her colleagues from other member states of the European Union to discuss matters relating to the provision of multilateral aid to the indigenous people of Tibet. [23859]

The Secretary of State for International Development (Clare Short)

I have not personally discussed aid to Tibet with my European colleagues, but my officials are in touch with the Commission about the proposed Pa Nam rural development project, which will provide assistance for indigenous small farmers in Tibet. One condition of the agreement with the Chinese Government was that there should be clear provision for participation by local communities.

Mr. Godman

Not a penny of European Union funding should be given to the project until certain guarantees are met, one of which should be that the project must be managed and staffed by indigenous Tibetans. Before the agreement with the Chinese Government is signed, the involvement of non-governmental organisations must also be guaranteed. I understand that the Save the Children Fund could help with the project.

Clare Short

Agreement has been reached with the Chinese Government that the project should involve indigenous Tibetans and NGOs. On the non-renewal of a visa for an education worker with the Save the Children Fund, Sir Leon Brittan decided, without consulting member states or the Save the Children Fund—I think that my hon. Friend will approve of the decision—to suspend implementation of the project until the problem is resolved. We very much hope that it will soon be resolved.

Rev. Martin Smyth

During a recent visit to India—at my own expense—I joined Lord Weatherill to visit Dharmasala. Would the Secretary of State be prepared to consider, and perhaps act, on providing scholarships for young Tibetans to come and be educated so that they might give leadership to their own people?

Clare Short

Most of the help which Britain bilaterally gives to Tibet is provided through local non-governmental organisations to get the help into the hands of local Tibetans. On scholarships, we are trying to move the emphasis towards training in the country because we can achieve more for our money and provide training that is relevant to the needs of that country. I will look at the hon. Gentleman's proposal, but that is the way in which we are moving.