HL Deb 13 June 1996 vol 572 cc178-9WA
The Earl of Sandwich

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is their response to the humanitarian needs in Georgia; what contacts they have made with the churches and non-governmental organisations active there; and to what effect.

Baroness Chalker of Wallasey

Britain's direct emergency assistance to Georgia began in March 1993. Grants totalling over £6.1 million have supported UN agencies and non-governmental organisations in a range of humanitarian aid initiatives. In February/March the United Nations Department of Humanitarian Affairs invited donors to attend an assessment mission of the area and to meet NGOs. The ODA sent a team of specialists to participate. Their recommendations led to grants worth over £1 million to worthy projects and effective operators. A further monitoring visit is planned.