HC Deb 16 December 1998 vol 322 c590W
16. Mr. Clapham

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what plans she has to assist the South African Government in combating AIDS. [62758]

Clare Short

South Africa is one of the countries most badly affected by HIV/AIDS. The rate of new infections is estimated at 1,500 per day and 2.5 million people are already infected. South Africa's leaders are beginning to take the issue seriously and support for AIDS control and preventions is a priority for our development partnership. But the challenge also requires regional action and we are discussing with governments, UNAIDS and the European Commission how to intensify our support for sexual and reproductive health to develop more effective national and regional programmes.