§ Hugh BayleyTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment her Department has made of the humanitarian impact of the conflict in Cote d'Ivoire; what response her 949W Department and the international community have made to those needs; what steps are being taken to establish peace; and if she will make a statement. [76923]
§ Clare ShortWe have not undertaken an independent assessment of the humanitarian impact of the conflict in Cote d'Ivoire. However we are monitoring the situation closely and are in regular contact with UN agencies in the field. The UN held an Emergency Regional Contingency Planning meeting in Accra from 17–18 October to discuss the situation. We are awaiting their assessment of likely humanitarian needs.
We are working closely with the international community to bring about a swift and peaceful resolution to the conflict. We consider that the best hope for peace lies in an African led solution and we are supporting the efforts of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) to mediate in the conflict. An ECOWAS mediation team has succeeded at establishing contact with the rebels and gaining commitment from both parties to a ceasefire and the start of negotiations. It is also proposed that an ECOWAS monitoring force be established to replace the French troops currently providing a buffer force between the two sides. The plans for this force are still under discussion. The UK has provided a military adviser to assist ECOWAS in their efforts.