Mr. Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1) what measures are being taken to ensure that agricultural research institutes in the United Kingdom contribute to the support for agricultural development overseas; and if he will make a statement;
(2) if he will list the research projects funded through Her Majesty's Government's overseas aid budget which are being carried out in co-operation with agricultural research establishments in (a) England, (b) Scotland and (c) Wales.
§ Mr. Chris PattenIn meeting the requirements of developing countries, the ODA seeks help from the scientific community in the United Kingdom and particularly the agricultural research institutions and universities which have the necessary research capacity and expertise.
Much research is undertaken and advice provided by the ODA's own scientific units — the Land Resources Development Centre and the Tropical Development and Research Institute. There are close links between these and United Kingdom research institutions and joint work is carried out. The ODA also commissions research and development in the agricultural sector at numerous agricultural research institutions in the United Kingdom. Institutions may submit proposals for funding to the ODA as a result of overseas contacts made by them and these are considered by a projects committee twice a year. Worthwhile projects are included in the ODA's portfolio.
A list of research projects carried out in co-operation with agricultural—not including forestry and fisheries—research establishments in England, Scotland and Wales, 26W
£ million Current prices £ million Constant prices 1983 1,174 1,336 1984 1,318 1,441 1985 1,316 1,355 1986 1,358 1,358