HC Deb 22 May 1997 vol 294 cc120-1W
Mr. Vaz

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what provision is being made for the emergency provision of humanitarian relief in the Democratic Republic of Congo. [1036]

Clare Short

The needs are unclear. An international assessment will be needed but UN agencies and NGOs report that aid supplies in the region are adequate to cover immediate needs. The airlift of Rwandan refugees from the Kisangani area is ongoing. Thirty-three thousand five hundred refugees have been repatriated so far. The UK has provided finance and personnel to help. I am ready to consider further assistance as needs are identified.