§ Mr. EdwardsTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement on progress in ensuring that humanitarian aid reaches hospitals in Afghanistan. [51723]
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§ Clare ShortDespite three years of drought and 23 years of conflict, basic health facilities, including hospitals and clinics, continue to operate in Afghanistan with the support of the humanitarian community. The improving security in recent months has facilitated the delivery of increasing quantities of medical relief items into Afghanistan and their distribution to areas of the greatest need. This has included the recent vaccination of around 6 million Afghan children against polio, and the rehabilitation of health facilities through quick impact projects funded by my Department.
While immediate humanitarian needs remain a priority, the Afghan Interim Authority (AIA) has laid the foundations for a stronger health care system through the drafting of a National Development Framework, including a policy for reconstruction of the health sector, in partnership with the United Nations and assistance community. This focuses on equitable access to health care and will involve the construction of around 1,000 new health facilities around the country in coming months and years.