§ 50. Mr. KirkhopeTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs in what way Her Majesty's Government are helping to reduce the consequences of famine in Ethiopia.
§ Mrs. ChalkerSubstantial amounts of food aid are likely to be needed but a fuller picture will emerge when United Nations crop assessment data become available shortly. Meanwhile, I announced in August 5,000 tonnes of wheatflour and I have recently approved a further 5,000 tonnes. We are, of course, working closely with other aid donors on emergency help.
§ 61. Mr. Jacques ArnoldTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans Her Majesty's Government have to help alleviate famine in Ethiopia.
§ Mrs. ChalkerAs I have said in reply to the question from my hon. Friend, the Member for Leeds, North-East (Mr. Kirkhope), the situation is not yet fully clear, but it is likely that substantial amounts of food aid will be 435W needed to prevent the recurrence of famine in northern Ethiopia over the coming year. I announced in August the allocation of 5,000 tonnes of wheatflour to Ethiopia and I have recently approved the allocation of a further 5,000 tonnes. We shall continue to monitor the situation very closely and to liaise with other aid donors.