HL Deb 03 July 2000 vol 614 cc117-8WA
Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether rebel forces in Sierra Leone are receiving weapons, food, medicine and training from the authorities in Liberia; and, if so, what action they propose. [HL2990]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

There is increasing international concern over reports of close links between the RUF rebels in Sierra Leone and supporters in Liberia. The EU has recently expressed deep concern at President Taylor's failure to prevent arms and other supplies from reaching the rebels in Sierra Leone from the territory of Liberia.

We are taking forward our discussions with international partners on these issues. We welcome the EU's decision on 13 June to delay signature of the National Indicative Programme for Liberia in the light of concerns about Liberian activities.