§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether international observers will be made available to Angola to assist with ceasefires, surrenders of rebel forces and the collection of weapons; and whether international aid is available to assist the resettlement of displaced population. [HL3127]
§ Baroness AmosFollowing Jonas Savimbi's death, we are watching the situation in Angola closely, as are EU partners, the US, and the UN. We have encouraged the Angolan Government to make the most of this opportunity, and would support efforts towards a just and sustainable peace. It is too soon to say what form this support might take.
The UK has committed some £3.95 million for humanitarian assistance since the beginning of 2001 via the ICRC, international NGOs and UN agencies. We are willing to consider further responses to urgent needs. We have supported calls for safe and unrestricted humanitarian access by relief agencies to Angolan civilians in all areas, and for both sides in the conflict to ensure full respect for human rights and international law.