HC Deb 28 June 1999 vol 334 c18W
Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he has received concerning casualties from the conflict in Ethiopia and Eritrea. [88359]

Mr. Tony Lloyd

We have seen differing reports of casualties throughout the conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea. We have no reliable figures, but estimate that total casualties are high on both sides: approximately 40,000 Ethiopian and 20,000 Eritrean.

Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Governments of(a) Ethiopia and (b) Eritrea, concerning the conflict between the two countries. [88360]

Mr. Tony Lloyd

We have always supported UN and OAU efforts to resolve the conflict. I discussed the issues with the OAU Secretary General on 28 May and with the UN Secretary General on 25 June. I have also discussed the war with the Ethiopian Foreign Minister and Deputy Foreign Minister and the Ambassadors of Ethiopia and Eritrea in recent months. Our message has been clear: both sides must stop fighting immediately and implement the OAU Framework peace proposals.