§ Mr. HesfordTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement on the timetable for the Government's release of funds for overseas aid projects through non-governmental agencies for projects within Sierra Leone. [17410]
§ Clare ShortThe time scale for resumption of normal aid to Sierra Leone, provided through non-governmental agencies, will depend on progress in establishing peace and the return of the democratically elected government of President Kabbah.
Principles and guidelines for the provision of humanitarian aid have been established by the Office of the United Nations Humanitarian Co-ordinator for Sierra Leone. Funding is being provided through the European Community Humanitarian Office and my Department is also considering bilateral support through the International Committee of the Red Cross.