§ Viscount Montgomery of Alameinasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is the current position on aid to Zanzibar.
§ Baroness Chalker of WallaseyWe have decided that, in present circumstances, we should not continue with our programme of development assistance to Zanzibar. This reflects our concern about the way in which the outcome of the Zanzibar Government elections in October 1995 was handled, and disturbing reports of post-election political polarisation and harassment of some sections of the community. We do not believe that the current environment is conducive to the effective implementation of a development programme. This decision does not preclude the resumption of further assistance to Zanzibar when circumstances have improved.