HC Deb 29 April 1998 vol 311 c155W
22. Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what measures are proposed to promote market economies in the emerging democracies by way of expanding the know-how fund and related schemes. [39082]

Clare Short

The Know How Fund exists to support the transition countries to develop democratic and market economy institutions.

We also support World Bank, EBRD, TACIS and PHARE Programmes to assist these aims.

The Know How Fund spent approximately £90 million in 1997–98, and will spend about £80 million in 1998–99. We also contribute substantial sums to the transition countries through multilateral channels.