§ Lord Juddasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is their latest assessment of the political situation in Burundi and the consequent humanitarian challenges and what action they are taking bilaterally and multilaterally to help meet the situation.
§ Baroness Chalker of WallaseyThe situation in Burundi remains grave, with prospects for meaningful political negotiations adversely affected by recent fighting in Eastern Zaire and within Burundi. We continue to support the mediation efforts of ex-President Nyerere, and welcome his intention to hold further talks in mid-December. The UK has committed over £3 million in humanitarian assistance to Burundi in 1996 through UN agencies and non-governmental organisations, both bilaterally and through the European Union.