§ Mr. Lawrenceasked the Lord Privy Seal what military, economic, medical or financial aid is being given by the Government to help the Afghan people in their resistance to the Russian aggression in Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HurdThe thrust of the Government's policy is to promote a political settlement, the complete withdrawal of Soviet troops and a neutral, non-aligned and independent Afghanistan. The various possible types of help have to be considered on their merits against that background. Aid seems to be getting through, but it is doubtful whether it would be helpful to the Afghan people to be specific about the sources.
§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Lord Privy Seal what progress is being made in his proposals to create a neutral Afghanistan; and what discussions he has had with other Governments concerning the proposals.
§ Mr. HurdThe proposal for a neutral and non-aligned Afghanistan continues to have the full support of the Nine. I refer the hon. Member to the declaration issued in Venice following the meeting of the European Council on 13 June. We have discussed our thinking with a large number of other Governments.