HC Deb 21 April 1986 vol 96 c35W
60. Mr. Geraint Howells

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how he assesses the efficacy of the British aid programme in alleviating the suffering of the poorest communities in Third world countries; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Raison

Our aid programme is effective in helping to alleviate poverty and is carefully monitored. Much of it helps the poorest people directly. But alleviation of poverty also depends upon sustainable economic progress, which our aid is designed to promote.