HC Deb 07 February 1978 vol 943 cc521-2W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister of Overseas Development, in view of the fact that during the period 1972 to 1976 the Crown Agents invited 24 hon. Members to the luncheons and receptions, and that of this number 18 were Conservative hon. Members and six Labour hon. Members, whether she will take action to ensure that all public organisations, including the Crown Agents, attempt to arrange such invitations on a basis of equal representation between the political parties in the House.

Mrs. Hart

It would not be appropriate for me to give directions to the Crown Agents on a matter of this kind. I understand that since October 1974 very careful attention has been given to this point.

Mrs. Hart

The 29 least developed countries, and the total amounts of principal and interest outstanding on 31st December 1976 where official United Kingdom loans have been provided, are listed below: