§ Mr. Harry GreenwayTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he has any plans to make an official visit to China to discuss overseas aid; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Chris PattenI visited China from 17–23 September during which time I signed on behalf of the United Kingdom a new memorandum of understanding providing aid and trade provision support for development projects up to a total value of £300 million. Soft loans and mixed credits will be available for projects to be agreed by the British and Chinese Governments. I also visited a number of British aid activities—particularly English language teaching and science and technology consultancies—which are providing excellent value for money and are strengthening Britain's growing political and commercial links with China.