§ 15. Paul Goggins (Wythenshawe and Sale, East)What recent discussions he has had with the United Nations about the promotion of peacekeeping. [1197]
§ The Minister of State for Defence (Mr. Adam Ingram)My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State discussed peacekeeping issues with UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan on 21 June during his visit to the UK. Discussion included implementation of the Brahimi report to improve UN peacekeeping, peacekeeping training and current UN operations.
§ Paul GogginsI thank my right hon. Friend for his answer, and welcome the action taken so far on the Brahimi report. Will he act to speed up the implementation of the report? What action is he taking to develop the capacity and commitment of our UN partners to play their full role in international peacekeeping?
§ Mr. IngramThe British armed forces have particular experience and expertise in peacekeeping operations, and that is an example to others. We are already doing much to assist others through bilateral and regional programmes of training, seminars, workshops and exercises. We operate several military training teams that provide such support permanently. We are looking to do more in partnership with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Department for International Development, through new initiatives funded by the global conflict prevention fund. I am sure that all those initiatives will allow us to make rapid progress on the Brahimi report.
§ Mr. John Bercow (Buckingham)Precisely what financial contribution does the Minister envisage Britain making this year, and how exactly does it compare with the figure for last year?
§ Mr. IngramI shall write to the hon. Gentleman with those details.