Discussion

MR BENJAMIN, Paper 1

All experience supports the view that few problems arise in

execution that do not have their origins in the pre-contract

period, e.g. contract terms give the client scope for

Interference and delay without appropriate contract

responsibility.

Where support from central government is involved, it is

vital that everyone should be fully aware and recognize the

constraints under which officials and ministers work. The

powers under the Overseas Development and Co-operation Act

1980 are general and enabling, but their use in practice is

limited by criteria, procedures and limitations made in

agreeing with the Treasury how they will be used, and by