§ Mr. WatsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the policy of the Overseas Development Administration on involving recipient countries in the selection process during competitive tendering in respect of projects which it funds. [34840]
§ Mr. HanleyWhere the ODA provides financial aid, the recipient country is responsible for the tendering process, and—unlike the ODA—is a party to the contract. Under technical co-operation, where contracts are let by the ODA, the recipients' needs are fully considered in drawing up project terms of reference and in the criteria for selection. In the latter case, the views of the recipient may be sought about the relative merits of tenders 1025W submitted, but the ODA is responsible for ensuring the proposed contract award is determined by best procurement practice.