§ Dr. BrandTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what aid and assistance the Government have provided to the people of Chernobyl since 1986; and how much is planned to be made available over the next three years. [160976]
§ Mr. MullinMost UK assistance in response to the Chernobyl disaster is provided through the European Community and through our bilateral aid programmes. In total we have spent over £42 million since 1986.
Most of our support has funded the rebuilding of the sarcophagus and essential decommissioning facilities at Chernobyl through the Chernobyl Shelter Fund and the Nuclear Safety Account.
We also give modest direct support to Chernobyl charities, especially those helping children affected by the 1986 disaster.
We expect to continue work in all these areas over the next three years.