§ Mr. StreeterTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent discussions her Department has had with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office concerning the resumption of direct development aid to Pakistan. [109195]
§ Clare ShortWe frequently discuss our policy on Pakistan with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office colleagues, which is aimed at helping secure firm commitment to action by the Pakistani administration on poverty reduction—requiring early transition to democracy, better economic management and measures to tackle corruption. We have made it clear to the304W administration that, given satisfactory assurances, we should be ready to consider supporting them in pursuing fundamental reform. Meanwhile, our assistance to the poor continues through non-governmental channels.