§ The Earl of Sandwichasked Her Majesty's Government:
What they are doing bilaterally and through the United Nations agencies to encourage the peace process in the Congo; and what material assistance they have given to peace-keeping and reconstruction. [HL3569]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanBritain is working hard for peace. We continue to support African efforts towards a peaceful settlement in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We hope the ceasefire agreement signed in Lusaka on 10 July will bring an end to a war that has caused untold suffering and damage to the region. We have urged all parties to show commitment to the agreement. Britain stands ready, with the rest of the international community, to help consolidate the peace. And with our EU partners we have also made clear our readiness to help with rebuilding the country once the right conditions are in place. Prior to the conflict we pledged 10 million US dollars to a World Bank Trust Fund established for this purpose. The prospects for disbursement of the fund will soon be re-examined.