HC Deb 23 July 1997 vol 298 cc626-7W
19. Mr. Simon Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what policies she plans to initiate or develop on a Commonwealth-wide basis. [8376]

Clare Short

The Government believe that the Commonwealth has the potential to play an important role in tackling a wide range of global issues. The forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Edinburgh will provide an opportunity to develop Commonwealth-wide initiatives in areas such as economic reform, trade, investment and human rights. Work has already begun in these areas as part of the preparation for this meeting.