SECRETARY OF STATE'S MEETING WITH HIGH COMMISSIONERS
WED SDAY, 21 NOVEMBER 1984
ETHIOPIA FAMINE RELIEF
POINTS TO MAKE (DEFENSIVE)
1
Britain has responded quickly to the worsening situation in Ethiopia. We have contributed aircraft,
financial assistance largely to help with
2.
food and significant
internal distribution.
European Community has responded swiftly to the Prime Minister's initiative, and has recently allocated £35 million to African countries in need, much of which will benefit Ethiopia.
Welcome efforts made by other Commonwealth countries; especially Australia and Canada who are sending substantial quantities of grain, and by the voluntary agencies.
Must see Ethiopian problem in context of other African
countries and countries elsewhere. Including Commonwealth countries with whom we have a special affinity.
Solution to needs of the hungry are not to be found in creating new institutions and bureaucracies but in using effectively those we have already got.
Responsibility for coordinating efforts of donors rests with
Ethiopian Government.
United Nations of
Welcome the appointment by Secretary General of
a coordinator to: assist it in this
Long-term prevention of future famines depends on sensib agricultural policy. We are hoping that the pragmatic approach taken by the Ethiopian Government towards famine relief will extend
to their approach to long-term agricultural development
14 November 1984
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