§ Mr. PikeTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has received regarding the importing of South African goods; and what plans he has to assist South African industries to expand their world trade. [17712]
§ Dr. Liam FoxNegotiations are in progress between the European Commission and the South African Government on South Africa's qualified accession to the Lomé convention and on a possible free trade agreement. The British Government are pressing for swift progress on this issue and have made it clear that they support the most liberal agreement possible. Representations in support of a generous line towards South Africa have been received from numerous members of the British public and from interested organisations.
§ Mr. PikeTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what meetings he has had in the last year to discuss housing and employment problems in South Africa. [17713]
§ Dr. FoxMy right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State has not, in the last year, held meetings to address these specific issues. My right hon. and noble Friend the Minister for Overseas Development has, however, had numerous meetings both in Britain and in South Africa, to discuss South Africa's development needs. Housing is not one of the five agreed priorities for the British aid programme, but our high commission in Pretoria has funded projects assisting with housing. The British development division in South Africa is also helping with small enterprise development and job creation.