§ Mrs. Curtis-ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what financial and other assistance has been given to the Westminster Foundation for Democracy during 1998–99; what support the foundation received during 1999–2000; and if he will make a statement on the reasons for giving support to the foundation. [94543]
§ Mr. Robin CookThe Westminster Foundation for Democracy received £3,136,970 from the Foreign Office in 1998–99 in Grant-in-Aid and special purpose grants, as well as a grant of £31,845 from DfID. For the current financial year the Westminster Foundation for Democracy has been allocated £4 million in Grant-in-Aid and up to £244,000 for special projects from the FCO and £14,000 from DfID.
In addition to financial assistance, an FCO official serves on the Foundations's Board of Governors in an advisory capacity.
The Westminster Foundation for Democracy exists to promote democratic development worldwide. It has a proven track record in delivering high quality projects in support of democracy building around the world.