HC Deb 01 March 2000 vol 345 c296W
22. Mr. Luff

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent representations she has received about her Department's policies on the development of the agricultural sector in Africa. [111194]

Clare Short

Officials maintain regular contact with developing country governments, civil society and the private sector on the development of the agricultural sector in Africa. We seek to improve the livelihoods of the rural poor and reduce poverty.

We have recently commissioned an independent evaluation to assess the impact of our sustainable agriculture strategy. The study will be completed later this year.