HC Deb 08 November 1982 vol 31 cc309-10
58. Mr. Major

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will make a statement about emergency relief aid provided by the United Kingdom to the Lebanon.

Mr. Neil Marten

I have just approved a grant of £100,000 to the International Committee of the Red Cross. In total we have so far contributed some £4 million to direct relief aid and I am circulating details in the Official Report.

Mr. Major

I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for that comprehensive reply. Is he aware that Britain's gesture in financing the maintenance of two medical teams in the Lebanon is especially welcome at this difficult time? Does he anticipate that the Government will extend that relief beyond the three months currently agreed?

Mr. Marten

When the three-month period expires, we shall examine the position. I have pledged support for three months. The medical teams provided by Christian Aid and Save the Children Fund will cost up to £100,000.

Mr. Sever

Is the Minister aware that many of us will be grateful to him for his response to this question? Is he further aware that we are anxious that he should give a commitment this afternoon to continuing help in that dreadful tragedy? Will he assure the House today that aid will be forthcoming as and when representations are made to him?

Mr. Marten

No, Sir, but I assure the House that the Government will certainly consider any approaches on the matter.

Mr. Hooley

Will the Government ensure that the accommodation provided for the Palestinians whose homes have been wrecked by the Israeli invasion is permanent and weatherproof and does not comprise just tents, which do not offer sufficient protection for families in the winter?

Mr. Marten

I cannot give that assurance either, but I shall look into the matter. In addition to the £4 million I mentioned, we gave a further £4 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for just that purpose.

Mr. Lawrence

Are not the Lebanese Government refusing offers of more durable accommodation lest it should be considered to be permanent?

Mr. Marten

I have not heard that said before, but I shall look into the matter.

Following are the details:

£ million
1. Cash grant to International Committee of the Red Cross 0.1
2. Food aid to United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (Flour) 1.0
3. Disaster aid (Medical supplies, blankkets, food and cash grants etc.) 0.4
4. United Kingdom share of EC contributions 2.5

[In addition the United Kingdom is contributing in 1982 £4 million in cash to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, of which some will be used in the Lebanon.]