§ Mr. Hoyleasked the Minister of State for Overseas Development why the United Kingdom is financing £7,100,000 towards setting up two new cotton spinning mills in Bangladesh; and if British textile machinery is being supplied for use in these mills.
§ Mrs. HartWe are helping to finance these two spinning mills because they make good sense for the economic development of Bangladesh; the yarn produced will go mainly to supply the village hand-loom industry helping to alleviate poverty and supply basic needs throughout Bangladesh. Our contribution is tied to United Kingdom goods and services so the textile machinery will be supplied by British manufacturers.