§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment she has made of the development project for a network of bridges in the Philippines and for its applicability in other countries. [20252]
§ Clare ShortWe are providing support from the Aid and Trade Provision for the construction of 218 road bridges in less developed and disaster-prone areas. When appraised in 1995, the programme was considered to be of high developmental value. A second proposal is now under appraisal. This involves support for construction or replacement of bridges located on national highways and our support will depend on whether such bridges bring significant benefits to poor people.