§ 76. Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what proportion of the overseas development budget has been spent on assisting British companies under the aid-trade provision over the last three years.
§ Mr. Chris PattenATP expenditure on grants to developing countries as a proportion of total gross public expenditure on overseas aid was 3.9 per cent. in 1984, 3.2 per cent. in 1985, and 5.8 per cent. in 1986.
§ 77. Sir Russell JohnstonTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the size of the United Kingdom's aid budget.
§ Mr. Chris PattenThe net aid programme is planned to be £1,305 million in 1988–89, £1,375 million in 1989–90 and £1,420 million in 1990–91. Any costs arising from the debt initiative by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor will be additional to these figures. The Government are therefore planning for an aid programme that is growing in real terms. This is recognition of the value of a substantial and effective aid programme both to Britain and to developing countries.
§ 79. Mr. SoamesTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he is satisfied with the effectiveness of the British aid programme.
§ Mr. Chris PattenI am satisfied that we have an effective aid programme. More than ever, with a growing aid programme, I shall endeavour to get the best value for money for every pound spent.