HC Deb 01 April 2004 vol 419 cc1678-9W
14. Kevin Brennan

To ask the Chancellor of Exchequer, if he will make a statement on his policy towards the cancellation of debt in the world's poorest countries. [164994]

John Healey

The UK Government continues to be absolutely committed to the rapid and full implementation of the heavily indebted poor countries (HIPC) initiative—to ensuring that it delivers as much debt relief as possible under the current framework.

The UK goes even further than is required under the HIPC initiative and is committed to providing 100 per cent. debt relief to eligible HIPC countries.

But we must ensure that the HIPC initiative is completed, that topping up is provided where necessary for countries to achieve the 150 per cent. debt-to-export ratio, that it is fully funded, and that it has wide participation.

However, debt relief alone is not sufficient. All HIPC countries will need additional aid to meet the MDGS. That is why the UK's proposal for an International finance facility (IFF) is so important. it can provide the much-needed substantial increase in resources—in the form of grants, concessional loans, or further debt relief—needed to attain the MDGS.

18. Mrs. Betty Williams

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on his policy towards the cancellation of debt in the world's poorest countries. [164998]

Mr. Boateng

The UK Government continues to be absolutely committed to the rapid and full implementation of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative and to ensuring that it delivers as much debt relief as possible, to as many eligible countries as possible, under the current framework.

Ms Dari Taylor

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on his policy towards the cancellation of debt in the world's poorest countries. [164982]

Mr. Gordon Brown

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for South Swindon (Ms Drown) earlier today.

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