ABSTRACT
Lester Pearson of Canada, like Willy Brandt of West Germany more recently, and a number of other eminent political figures, have lent their names to movements to publicise the great gap between rich and poor countries. More often the politicians who advocate a greater transfer of resources from rich to poor countries are those of lower rank, those no longer in high office, or those making election promises. Those in power are more concerned with winning the next election or, like President Reagan during his presidency in 1980-8, have little time for foreign aid anyway. Nevertheless, the United Nations solemnly continues to produce reports on global inequalities, putting countries into various categories according to their level of development or per capita income, and assessing their eligibility for development assistance.
