§ 21. Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the effects on the civilian population of Sierra Leone of recent events; and if he will make a statement. [12363]
§ Mr. HanleyWe welcome the new head of state's assurance that he intends to maintain the election timetable. We remain convinced that a civilian democratic rule offers the best prospect of peace and prosperity, and we will continue to support the democratic transition and efforts to resolve the internal conflict which has caused so much suffering.
§ Mr. HughesI am grateful for that answer, which I am sure will be appreciated both here and in Sierra Leone. More Sierra Leoneans live in Britain than anywhere else in Europe. Can the Minister make further inquiries of the Sudanese Government about whether they have stopped the appalling atrocities that are occurring, not in Freetown, which is relatively safe, but in rural parts of the country? According to recent information, mutilation, rape and killing is occurring in great severity on a daily basis, and has so far been unreported.
§ Mr. HanleyI agree with the hon. Gentleman that thousands of civilians have been killed and that there is evidence of appalling atrocities being committed. Half a million people, between 10 and 20 per cent. of the population, have been displaced internally or are refugees in Côte d'lvoire, Guinea and Liberia. Military expenditure has increased while revenue from taxes, agriculture and mining has dried up. That is a terrible waste and, frankly, no way in which to repair what could be a beautiful country. In the interests of not only right hon. and hon. Members but of the Sierra Leoneans who happen to be in the United Kingdom, we must try to help the country to reach a solution.