§ Dr. HarrisTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development which existing land-mine clearance projects the Government assist financially; and what clearance methods these projects use. [26060]
§ Clare ShortWe are currently directly supporting clearance projects in Afghanistan, Cambodia, Laos, Northern Iraq and Mozambique. We are also supporting demining activities through the United Nations and the European Community. Directly supported projects all involve manual clearance methods though some also use mechanical devices and dogs.
§ Dr. harrisTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment she has made of the Dervish land mine clearance device, developed at Edinburgh University; and if she will provide financial assistance to support its forthcoming trials in Bosnia. [26059]
§ Clare ShortDervish Mine Clearance recently submitted a funding proposal for three years support costs. This is presently being technically appraised. The proposal makes no mention of trials in Bosnia.