§ Lord Turnbergasked Her Majesty's Government:
What are the implications for United Kingdom relations with the Gambia of decisions to be taken by the Medical Research Council about its major unit in that country. [HL2101]
§ Baroness AmosThe MRC facilities in the Gambia provide valuable scientific research into many areas of tropical medicine and disease control. The Department for International Development contributes substantially to funding for the research facilities and the High Commission in Banjul keeps in close touch with the MRC director for the Gambia and his staff. The Government of the Gambia take a keen interest in the work of the facility which is an indication of the high esteem in which its scientific research is held.
During its recent review the MRC recognised the importance of MRC Gambia in providing high quality research aimed at reducing the mortality and morbidity in developing countries. Discussions are now underway to strengthen the relationship with the Government of the Gambia and other countries in West Africa, to build regional capacity, and to develop a research agenda relevant to local and international priorities. A partnership agreement between MRC and the Government of the Gambia is being developed.