§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement about the cessation of funding from her Department to the non-governmental organisation Merlin working in Southern Sudan. [69029]
§ Clare ShortWe funded the NGO Merlin for a 6 month programme of humanitarian assistance in Southern Sudan last August. This project ended on 31 January. As needs were much reduced, an extension of this project is not required.
§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what plans she has to assist with the construction of secure roads and bridges in Southern Sudan. [69032]
§ Clare ShortHelp to improve the infrastructure necessary to deliver food, including road and bridge repairs, is included in the UN World Food Programme's transport and delivery costs. We have paid the full costs associated with the provision of our food aid.
§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what plans she has to assist with vaccination of children against measles and polio in Southern Sudan. [69031]
§ Clare ShortOur humanitarian assistance last year included an allocation of £125,000 towards the WHO Global Polio Eradication Programme.
The 1999 UN Consolidated Appeal covers the treatment of polio and measles. We are currently evaluating the Appeal document.
§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what plans she has for the continuation of humanitarian aid to Southern Sudan; and if she will make a statement. [69028]
§ Clare ShortWe received the UN 1999 Consolidated Appeal for Sudan on 28 January and we are considering it carefully. We will make a statement as soon as possible.
§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement regarding funding by her Department of simple fishing equipment in Southern Sudan. [69030]
§ Clare ShortThe provision of fishing equipment is included in the 1999 UN Consolidated Appeal. We are currently evaluating the Appeal document. I will write to the hon. Lady about difficulties over efforts to provide fishing equipment in the past.