§ Mr. BaldryTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the aid budget for the next three years.
§ Mrs. ChalkerThe substantial increases in the aid budget over the next three years announced to the House on 15 November are clear evidence of the Government's determination to play their full part in helping to promote sustainable economic and social development and in alleviating poverty in developing countries.
Compared with the original provision this year of £1,430 million, the aid budget is now planned to grow by 22 per cent. in cash terms over the next three years, or by 9 per cent. after allowing for forecast inflation. These increases will enable us not only to continue our widespread support for economic reform in developing countries, but to commit more resources to tackle the environmental issues that are fundamental to sustainable economic growth.