§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are working through NATO to ensure that sufficient skilled personnel are available in Kosovo to ensure safety in country areas as well as towns and main roads and to train local people in mine clearance and safe disposal of unexploded bombs. [HL3287]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanWe have been pressing at NATO and the UN for the speedy deployment of KFOR troops and civilian police to Kosovo. The full complement of KFOR troops should ensure security coverage throughout Kosovo. KFOR has been clearing mines from roads and buildings needed for operational purposes. The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) is responsible for humanitarian mine action throughout Kosovo. We are working closely with UNMAS and other NGOs. UNMAS has already begun its work, and training local people in mine clearance and safe disposal of ordnance will be part of its task. DfID has committed over £1 million so far, including substantial support for UNMAS' mine-clearance activities and the establishment of a UN Mine Action Co-ordination Centre in Pristina.