§ 74. Sir G. Nicholsonasked the Minister of Overseas Development what steps she is taking to bring to the attention of Commonwealth Governments the latest developments in the effective treatment of leprosy; and what measures of direct financial aid is given to Commonwealth countries for specific leprosy campaigns.
§ Mr. OramMy Department does not directly inform Commonwealth Governments of developments in the treatment of leprosy; but this information is contained in the Tropical Diseases Bulletin, towards the cost of which my Department contributes, and to which all these Governments subscribe.
With regard to the second part of the Question, my Department is not at present assisting any specific leprosy campaign in a Commonwealth country. It is, however, contributing approximately £15,000 towards three leprosy research projects within the Commonwealth.
§ 75. Sir G. Nicholsonasked the Minister of Overseas Development what contribution her Department makes, or intends to make, towards voluntary organisations or societies that are engaged on specific leprosy campaigns.
§ Mr. OramThe main function of my Department is to offer such capital and technical assistance to the developing countries as is requested by their governments. It does not normally give financial assistance to voluntary organisations.