§ Rev. Martin Smythasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether the level of aid to developing countries is being maintained in real terms; and what representations he has received from individuals and organisations on this matter.
§ Mr. Neil MartenThe figures for net aid are:
£ million Cash In cost terms (Base year 1980–81) 1979–80 788 929 1980–81 888 888 1981–82 972 873 1982–83 950- 790 1983–84 1,010 785 1984–85 1,070 781 Our official development assistance in 1981 as a proportion of GNP was well above the average for members of the OECD.
In the past three months 39 letters have been received on this matter.