HC Deb 05 March 1986 vol 93 cc165-6W
Mr. Beith

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he has any plans to increase the amount of development assistance given to Antigua and Barbuda; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Raison

On the independence of Antigua and Barbuda in 1981, the British Government agreed to provide a capital aid grant of £5 million followed by a £5 million interest free loan. Only £1.43 million of this has so far been committed, but we are prepared to increase the rate of commitment and disbursement with the cooperation of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. There is also a continuing programme of technical cooperation. Antigua and Barbuda also benefit from a regional grant of £4.5 million agreed in 1985 for the provision of shore facilities for the coastguard services for eastern Caribbean states. I see no need for more aid for the time being.

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