The Department of Trade and Industry is to amend the export control bill to make it clear that ministers must consider sustainable development and human rights when issuing guidance on arms exports.

The move follows a row over the granting of a licence to BAe to export an air control system to Tanzania which international development secretary Clare Short viewed as a threat to the country's long-term development.

With Tony Blair leaving for his tour of Africa tomorrow, chancellor Gordon Brown will today commit £10 million to primary school education within the Commonwealth.