§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what British assistance is being given to the formation of police forces in Somalia.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydWe have informed the UN, EC and other bilateral donors that we are ready to help in the re-establishment of an indigenous police force in Somalia. The UN is currently developing a plan. As soon as it is available we shall consider what form our assistance might take. Meanwhile, we have appointed a consultant to undertake an assessment of emergency rehabilitation needs in the north-west, including the requirements for the development of police forces in the region.
§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what efforts have been made to involve women's groups in the reconstruction of Somalia.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydMy right hon. and noble Friend Baroness Chalker of Wallasey met representatives of women's groups when she visited Somalia last September and again in February. She encouraged them to play a full role in Somalia's rehabilitation and reconstruction. Since, then, women's groups have played an active role in the political reconciliation process. The Addis reconciliation conference of 12 to 27 March 1993 agreed that women should be represented on the proposed interim national council. The UN's relief and rehabilitation plan for 1993 gives priority to activities designed to involve and assist women.