§ Mr. S. C. Silkinasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the policy of Her Majesty's Government concerning European Economic Community aid to Nicaragua; and what considerations form that policy.
§ Mr. OnslowNicaragua already receives both food aid and project aid from regular European Community programmes. In discussion with our European Community partners it has already been agreed that not all Central American countries should benefit from the special programme for additional aid to the area. In considering who should benefit we have to take account of the low priority which the Government of Nicaragua appear to give to using resources for social and economic development, as well as their curbs on civil rights, the treatment of minorities, and the continuing military buildup in Nicaragua.