§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what discussions she has had with the Government of Uganda concerning the abolition of primary school fees once debt relief has taken place. [127900]
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§ Mr. FoulkesThere has been no need for discussions on this particular issue as the Government of Uganda abolished primary school fees in all Government schools, with the exception of those in municipal areas, in January 1997. HIPC1 is on-going and HIPC2 has yet to be finalised; both sets of resources will be used to support the Government of Uganda's primary education programme.
§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what discussions she has had with the UN concerning the suspension of debt relief to Uganda. [127899]
§ Mr. FoulkesMy right hon. Friend had no discussions with the UN concerning debt relief to Uganda. We agreed that Uganda's debt relief could not be finalised by the Paris Club of government creditors at their May meeting as planned, because of Uganda's involvement in fighting at Kisangani. We want an early and lasting resolution to the situation, and we urge all sides to implement their obligations under the Lusaka Accord. When Uganda has fulfilled the undertakings it has given on Kisangani, we will support their return to the Paris Club. Uganda is receiving interim relief from the IMF and the World Bank, and we believe this should continue.