§ Mr. Tom ClarkeTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when Her Majesty's Government expect to achieve the United Nations' target of 0.7 per cent. of gross national product for overseas aid.
§ Mr. Chris PattenLike previous Administrations, the Government have not set a date for achieving the 0.7 per cent. target. Progress towards the target depends on developments in the economy and other claims on resources. We have a substantial aid programme and one that is now growing in real terms.