HC Deb 06 December 1999 vol 340 cc406-7W
Mr. Jack

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs which of his current foreign policy objectives are aided by the ECGD. [101486]

Mr. Hain

ECGD aids the following foreign policy objectives:

Objective 2: To improve, through international action, economic opportunities for a prosperous UK.

Objective 3: To improve quality of life worldwide; and develop a strong international community.

Objective 4: To increase the impact and respect for British foreign policy and values.

Objective 5: To ensure the UK plays a strong role in a strong Europe, responsive to people's needs.

UN Security Council resolution 1244 established UNMIK and KFOR for an initial deployment of 12 months, to continue thereafter unless the Security Council decided otherwise. We believe the international presence should remain in Kosovo for as long as is necessary to ensure a secure environment for the people of Kosovo to live in peace.

Mr. Jack

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what contribution the ECGD makes to Britain's foreign policy objectives. [101485]

Mr. Hain

ECGD contributes to Britain's foreign policyObjective 2 (to improve, through international action, economic opportunities for a prosperous UK) by promoting an safeguarding UK trade and outward investment, and other economic, financial and technological interests overseas; and by developing and implementing arrangements to further free, fair and sustainable trade and economic relations. Objective 3 (to improve quality of life worldwide; and develop a strong international community) is assisted by ECGD encouraging growth and development through out the world; and by international action to protect the environment.

Objective 4 (to increase the impact and respect for British foreign policy and values) is contributed to by ECGD's involvement in multilateral bodies, such as the OECD and Paris Club, and through multilateral and bilateral debt, and debt relief initiatives; by ensuring that international considerations inform government policy-making; and by providing a response to the concerns of Parliament, the public, and the media. Objective 5 is supported (to ensure the UK plays a strong role in a strong Europe, responding to people's needs) by ECGD's involvement in promoting effective EU external policies in the field of export credits.

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