§ Mr. BluntTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if it is the Government's policy that the United Kingdom should continue to give development assistance to Commonwealth countries which are in clear breach of the Harare Declaration. [8581]
§ Clare Short[holding answer 15 July 1997]: The UK Government's objective is the achievement of human rights for all people. We welcome and support the Commonwealth's commitment to the high standards set out in the Harare Declaration. A government's commitment to human rights will therefore be taken into account when decisions are made on development cooperation. My department will focus in its main efforts on promoting the rights essential for eliminating poverty and for achieving sustainable livelihoods and dignity for disadvantaged people in poor countries. This will frequently include aspects of good government and improved institutions. We will work in partnership with government, NGOs and civil society.