HL Deb 07 May 1998 vol 589 c79WA
Baroness Cox

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will consider providing resources to organisations willing to take humanitarian aid to people in need in Sudan in areas not served by United Nations Operation Lifeline Sudan. [HL1740]

Lord Whitty

The needs of the most vulnerable groups are paramount wherever they are in Sudan. Proposals from non-governmental organisations are considered for areas not covered by United Nations Operation Lifeline Sudan provided those organisations are experienced at working in complex humanitarian emergencies and are able to work in Sudan without favouring any of the factions involved.

Baroness Cox

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will prevail upon the Government of Sudan to allow access by humanitarian aid organisations to all those parts of Sudan where people are suffering from lack of food and medical supplies. [HL1741]

Lord Whitty

We take every opportunity to press all parties to the conflict on the need for non-governmental organisations and other humanitarian agencies to have full and unimpeded humanitarian access. This was reinforced by the United Nations Secretary General at the peace talks between the Sudanese Government and the main southern faction which took place in Nairobi on 2–5 May. We welcome the Government of Sudan's recent agreement to allow more relief flights to southern Sudan.