§ Mr. D. E. Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what are the 343W developmental criteria and relevant commercial and political factors which he takes into account in deciding on the allocation of aid; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RaisonThe fundamental objective of the aid programme is to promote sustainable economic and social progress and to alleviate poverty in developing countries particularly the poorest ones. While pursuing this aim we endeavour to assist the export of British goods and services primarily through tying much of our aid to their procurement. We believe that a substantial bilateral aid programme is an important aspect of our wider political relationship with developing countries.