§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what current and planned aid programmes her Department has established for the Democratic Republic of Congo; and if she will make a statement. [27435]
§ Mr. FoulkesBritain has contributed almost £40 million (including the UK share of EU assistance) in emergency assistance to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) since January 1994. We are ready to commit further emergency resources as new needs arise.
DRC's long-term development needs are enormous. Peace, stability, appropriate economic policies and respect for human rights will be crucial. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for International Development discussed this with Foreign Minister Karaha when she met him last week. Britain will not be a major bilateral donor. But we will work with the International Finance Institutions, the EU and others to facilitate the major international effort needed to support the Government of DRC's own reconstruction plans.