§ Mr. Deakinsasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what has been the trend in recent years in EEC food aid costs borne by his Department.
§ Mr. RaisonThe trend is downwards. The United Kingdom's share of European Community food expenditure was £71.7 million in 1981, £69.2 million in 1982 and £51.3 million in 1983. The United Kingdom also provides food aid bilaterally as part of the Community's obligation under the food aid convention. Expenditure in 1981, 1982 and 1983 was £13.9 million, £11.8 million and £13.3 million respectively.
§ Mr. Deakinsasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs why EEC food aid costs are charged to the United Kingdom overseas aid Vote.
§ Mr. RaisonThe United Kingdom share of all Community aid represents a real transfer of resources which constitutes part of the United Kingdom aid effort. It is therefore appropriate to treat it as part of our aid programme, along with our contributions to other multilateral agencies.