HC Deb 24 February 1986 vol 92 cc426-7W
53. Mr. Stuart Holland

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what programmes he is supporting to evaluate and alleviate the long-term effects of drought on refugees in the sub-Saharan countries.

Mr. Raison

The programmes of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the League of Red Cross Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross contain elements which are designed for this purpose. We make substantial contributions to these organisations: £9.8 million so far in the financial year 1985–86 for their Africa appeals.

As agreed in 1984 at the second international conference on assistance to refugees in Africa we are also providing £5 million towards infrastructure projects.

In addition, our bilateral aid to agriculture and other natural resources in Africa is designed to mitigate the effects of drought.

Catholic Fund for Overseas Development Catholic Institute for International Relations Christian Aid
£ £ £
Outturn:
1979–80 50,000 131,718 200,000
1980–81 75,000 183,386 250,000
1981–82 90,000 255,856 300,000
1982–83 100,000 322,132 330,000
1983–84 100,000 432,438 337,000
1984–85 300,000 535,610 700,000
Provision sought:
1985–86 350,000 619,500 1,000,000

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