HC Deb 28 January 1998 vol 305 cc287-8W
11. Helen Jackson

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what measures she is taking to strengthen the links between the European Community and the Southern Africa Development Community. [23868]

Clare Short

The UK Presidency will work to conclude the trade and co-operation agreement between South Africa and the European Union. We are also helping to prepare a joint seminar to help the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to benefit from globalisation and to increase the effectiveness of EU development assistance. There will be a SADC/EU Ministerial meeting later this year.

23. Mr. Evans

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what are her priorities for aid to southern Africa. [23881]

Clare Short

My priority across the region is to put the White Paper into practice. We will work with others to implement the international development targets through sustainable economic and social development, helping build and maintain efficient and accountable government and securing fair access to international markets for Southern African trade. Country programmes will be agreed with development partners and we will seek to co-ordinate our work more effectively with other donors.