HC Deb 12 December 2002 vol 396 cc469-70W
34. Jeff Ennis

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on what action he is taking to combat poverty in Africa. [85284]

John Healey

This year the UK has given special attention to Africa. At the G8 summit in June, members endorsed a new partnership for Africa's development. We share with African leaders the vision that a new outlook is needed and will require a strong commitment to reform and sustained political leadership by Africa itself. In turn, developed countries must share the benefits of globalisation, ensuring Africa can benefit from the opportunities it provides. The UK is taking forward actions in all the areas covered by the G8 Africa action plan as part of our ongoing international development efforts. And the 2002 Spending Review established, for the first time, a £1 billion annual bilateral programme for Africa by 2005–06.