§ 16 Dr. CableTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what plans she has to assist the newly elected Government in Nigeria with(a) economic reconstruction and reform and (b) debt relief. [R][85989]
§ Clare ShortWe recognise the many problems facing the newly elected Government, in particular the scale of poverty which has been increasing in Nigeria for many years. President Obasano has pledged a new approach to economic issues but has yet to announce his programme.176W Alongside the IMF, World Bank, European Union and other partners, we are ready to support the process of economic change and rebuilding government capacity.
We are helping Nigeria rejuvenate its moribund debt recording and management system in order to reconcile its external position with creditors. The next step will be for the Government to complete the current IMF programme so that detailed discussions can begin on dealing with Nigeria's debts.