HL Deb 05 July 1993 vol 547 cc41-2WA
Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What information they have about the recent talks in Abuja and Nairobi concerning peace in southern and western Sudan; what prospects they foresee for a positive outcome and whether they consider that mediation or arbitration services might be helpful.

Baroness Chalker of Wallasey

The talks between the Sudanese Government and the "Mainstream" faction of the SPLA in Abuja were adjourned on 18th May. It is not clear when they will resume. Those between the Sudanese Government and the "United" faction of the SPLA in Nairobi were adjourned on 25th May. Although some progress seems to have been made in both meetings, a considerable divide remains between the parties over future constitutional arrangements. We shall continue to support mediation efforts to resolve Sudan's problems by peaceful means.