§ Hugh BayleyTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development, what recent assistance(a) the UK and (b) the EU has provided to tackle famine in Southern Africa; and if she will make a statement. [74755]
§ Clare ShortSince September 2001, the UK has provided £71.6 million for food aid, logistical support and essential medicines for the six countries identified as having exceptional food shortages. As part of this effort we are also providing seeds and fertilisers to assist families to plant for the coming cropping season.
The EU has committed €148.5 million to the same six countries since January 2002. The UK share of this, which is additional to the £71.6 million commitment above, is about £17 million.