HC Deb 26 October 1979 vol 972 cc328-9W
Mr. Spearing

asked the Lord Privy Seal what funds have been made available in the past three years for the development of technology appropriate to Third world countries; and if he envisages any changes in the future pattern of any such aid.

Mr. Neil Marten

It is estimated that total spending on intermediate technologies from the aid programme amounted to £1.5 million in 1976–77, £1.9 million in 1977–78, and £2.7 million in 1978–79.

Of this expenditure, ODA's programme to promote intermediate technologies through the intermediate technology development group, which began in 1977, accounted for £0.1 million in 1977–78 and £0.4 million in 1978–79.

The future size and form of ODA's support for appropriate technologies is currently under review.