HC Deb 15 April 1980 vol 982 cc573-4W
Mr. Neubert

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will make a statement on the future of the Middle East Development Division.

Mr. Neil Marten

As part of the Government's policy to reduce Civil Service manpower, it has been decided that the ODA's Middle East Development Division should be withdrawn from Amman some time between March and June 1981. The reason for closure reflects the need for the most economic deployment of manpower in relation to administering the changing balance in the aid programme. It in no way reflects lessening interest in the region on the part of Her Majesty's Government. Following withdrawal it is envisaged that advice to heads of mission in the region will in general be provided from London.