HL Deb 07 May 1998 vol 589 cc79-80WA
The Earl of Sandwich

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What support they give to Operation Lifeline Sudan; and whether they have increased that support during the current emergency in southern Sudan. [HL1702]

Lord Whitty

We support Operation Lifeline Sudan through the annual United Nations Inter-Agency Consolidated Appeal process. We were the first country to respond to the 1998 Sudan appeal when we pledged £4 million in February. Nearly £3 million of this has already been given to the Save the Children Fund, Medecins sans Frontiéres, World Vision and the World Food Programme. In addition, nearly £500,000 million of food aid has been allocated through the EC as well as £1.25 million through the EC's 1998 Sudan programme. We remain ready to provide more and are maintaining close contact with United Nations bodies and international NGOs about future needs.

The Earl of Sandwich

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What food aid commitments they have made for the current year for southern Sudan; and through which international agencies they have made such commitments. [HL1703]

Lord Whitty

We have already given the World Food Programme (WFP) £1.9 million this year for their programme in Sudan and have also given nearly £500,000 through the EC. We are in contact with the WFP about additional needs which will arise if access to those at risk in Bahr E1 Ghazal improves.