§ Mr. Hooleyasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will ask for reports from the United Nations High Commission for Refugees about the numbers of refugees from South Lebanon and their current needs for food, shelter and medical attention.
§ Mr. Neil MartenThe United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) is not responsible for refugees in their own countries. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is responsible for the welfare needs of Palestinian refugees. UNRWA has appealed for US $39 million to include provision of flour, rice, butter oil, skimmed milk, protein, tents, kitchen units, blankets, towels and soap, and additional medical supplies. The ICRC has also issued an emergency appeal for Sw. Frs 38 million, intended to cover a three-month programme comprising Sw. Frs 8.36 million for medical assistance and Sw. Frs 22.78 million for relief food and shelter. Estimates of the number of refugees involved vary from 175,000 to 250,000. If I can obtain further information, I will write to the hon. Member.