§ Lord Juddasked Her Majesty's Government:
What are their priorities for the United Kingdom in responding to the continuing crisis in Angola with special reference to the United Nations special appeal, the targeted and effective delivery of humanitarian aid, the protection of humanitarian workers, the upholding of human rights, the role of civil society, the work of the United Nations Sanctions Committee and the development of a comprehensive peace plan. [HL4529]
§ Baroness AmosOur priority is to secure a lasting peace in Angola. In order to do this UNITA must resume dialogue in good faith with the Government of Angola on the basis of relevant UN Security Council resolutions with a view to the demilitarisation of UNITA and extension of state administration throughout the country. We also have to stop the funds which fuel the war. We fully support the efforts of the UN Angola Sanctions Committee and its expert 153WA panel in its endeavours. DFID has offered to contribute to the cost of the panel's investigations. Until peace is ensured, our aim is to help ensure that urgent humanitarian needs are met. We have committed about £7.25 million this year to this end. But help cannot be provided unless there is a safe environment for relief workers. We have supported and encouraged UN calls for safe and unrestricted humanitarian access by relief agencies to Angolan civilians. We have also supported calls for both sides in the conflict to ensure full respect for human rights and international humanitarian law.