In advance of the G7 world leaders summit in Japan in late July, South Swindon MP Julia Drown says it is time for governments to complete the job

In recent weeks, I have been inundated with cards from constituents who are campaigning for the millennium year to be marked by cancelling the debts of poor countries.

Good progress has been made on this issue. The UK has pledged £229 million, more than any other country, to the Trust Fund that helps to cover the costs of debt relief from multilateral creditors. We have also cancelled all aid debts and announced that we will provide one hundred per cent relief on debts owed to the UK by qualifying countries.

But the problem is far from solved. Some countries still face onerous debt service repayments even after they have qualified for maximum debt relief . In Mauritania, the adult illiteracy rate stands at 62%, one of the highest in the world and one in three children are not receiving an education. Yet the $80 million each year that Mauritania will still have to pay out in debt repayments would more than double its education and health budgets.

It is the poorest people in the world who suffer. Many in Swindon will know what it is like to feel hungry and not to be able to eat for a day ... it is hard for us to imagine what that feels like day after day after day for a whole family.

At the G7 Summit I expect Britain to put pressure on other countries to make further progress on this issue. We must urge those who have not pledged to cancel 100% of bilateral debts to follow our lead. Finally, we must press the US and others who have not yet done so, to contribute more to the Trust Fund to help fund deeper debt relief.

I have campaigned hard for debt cancellation for a number of years - passing on the concerns of my constituents to the Government and have organised events in Parliament to raise awareness and encourage change. Progress has been made, but more has to be done.

To get in touch with me on any issue then please write to 39 Victoria Road, Swindon SN1 3AT, or call my office on 01793 615444.

Debt Vigil - Saturday 22 July, 9pm - 12.30am Starting with a silent vigil in Regent Circus followed by procession to Christ Church, talk by the Bishop of Swindon and multi-faith service