Mr. Galbraith: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans he has to increase the overseas aidbudget; and if he will make a statement. [40773]Dr. Liam Fox: In common with the budgets of other Departments, ODA's budget for 1997-98 is currently under consideration in thepublic expenditure survey round, the outcome of which will not be known until the Chancellor's November Budget statement. At £2,154million in 1996-97, the UK's development assistance programme is substantial and is internationally recognised for its quality,effectiveness and poverty focus.