§ Mr. SillarsTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is his assessment of the problems facing the people of Albania; and if he will detail both what Her Majesty's Government have done to advance practical assistance and what further measures Her Majesty's Government intend to pursue unilaterally or in concert with other states.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggAlbania faces major economic problems including severe food shortages and has at the same time to build a democratic society after decades of Stalinism. As part of the European Community effort Britain is contributing towards medical aid and 145,000 tonnes of wheat. The total cost is some £12.25 million, of which Britain's share is over £2 million. We have also given £50,000 to the British charity Feed the Children, which has received over £500,000 in total through an appeal run byThe Sunday Times newspaper. We will continue to co-ordinate our response to Albania's need through the European Community and with other international donors. Finally the Community is preparing for negotiations on a trade and co-operation agreement.