HC Deb 09 February 1995 vol 254 cc348-9W
Mr. Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the Government of Algeria concerning their policy on the needs of the Saharawi refugees resident in that country.

Mr. Baldry

We have held no discussions with the Government of Algeria on this subject.

Mr. Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what aid has been provided(a) directly by the United Kingdom and (b) through bilateral procedures to the Saharawi people who are victims of floods at their refugee camps.

Mr. Baldry

The United Kingdom has provided no aid directly or through bilateral procedures to the Saharawi people. However, we provide support for refugees through UNHCR on a regular basis and in response to special appeals from them and other interactional agencies. UK contributions to UNHCR in 1994–95 so far amount to over £20 million. In 1994, UNHCR earmarked £4 million for assistance to Saharawi refugees in Algeria and have earmarked a further £4 million this year.