§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when the United Nations commission for the Mekong river project or any of its subsidiary bodies last met; what plans are currently in hand for the furtherance of the programme; and what contribution Her Majesty's Government expect to make to the solving of any problems that are preventing its progress.
§ Mrs. ChalkerThe last meeting of a Mekong commission body was held by the interim Mekong committee from 24 to 27 April 1990. An extensive work programme has been drawn up by the secretariat including some 70 projects planned for implementation in the period 1990–92. These are divided into three main areas: basin planning, data collection and information systems, and resources development.
The British Government already contribute to the cost of various research studies and we have indicated our willingness to consider support to other activities. This could include assistance, with other donors, for a further phase of the water balance study once all members of the committee have agreed the way forward.