HC Deb 23 February 1998 vol 307 cc3-4W
Mr. Vaz

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement on the level of British aid to India. [30478]

Clare Short

India is the largest recipient of British bilateral aid; we expect to spend around £90 million this year, all on grant terms. Substantial additional funds are channelled through the European Union, multilateral agencies and non-governmental organisations.

We are currently reviewing our development strategy for India in the light of the White Paper on International Development. Future levels of British development assistance to India will depend on the outcome of the review.

Mr. Vaz

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development when she next plans to visit India. [30477]

Clare Short

I intend to visit India in September or October this year.