Mr. RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what advice his Department is currently giving to those planning to travel to Egypt; and if he will make a statement. [95574]
§ Mr. HainThe FCO travel advice for Egypt, as valid on 22 October 1999 is as follows
805WBeginsBritish nationals travelling to Egypt should keep in touch with developments in the Middle East. Any increase in regional tension might affect travel advice.Over 200,000 British nationals visit Egypt each year. Most enjoy a trouble-free stay. Visitors should dress modestly, and respect local customs and sensitivities.Beginning in 1992 extremists conducted a campaign of violence against the Egyptian Government, mainly in the Governorates of Minya and Assiut (half way between Cairo and Luxor) but with sporadic attacks in other areas. Most incidents were directed at the police, or were sectarian in nature. However, some were directed against tourists. In March 1999 the principal extremist group reportedly announced a ceasefire, which has held so far. But the risk of a renewed campaign, including attacks on foreigners, remains. In addition, Egypt is one of a number of countries where we believe there is a threat to British interests from global terrorism.The Egyptian authorities have expressed their determination to prevent attacks on foreign visitors and have taken a number of steps to increase security, especially at tourist sites. British nationals should be vigilant and respect any advice from the local security authorities.There remains a small risk from unexploded mines in some desert areas, and some limited coastal areas. Visitors should follow local advice, especially if travelling off road.Local driving conditions and poor vehicle maintenance make road travel outside the main cities hazardous, especially at night. In the event of an accident emergency medical facilities are limited.Millennium BugThe Egyptian Government are continuing their efforts to minimise the effects of any Millennium Bug problems in Egypt. Based on the information available at present, we believe that as elsewhere, there is a risk of limited disruption in some sectors. Particular sectors include health and the mobile telephone network. British nationals resident in or visiting Egypt should take the potential for temporary disruption into account when making their plans for the New Year period. These should include checking insurance cover and having enough cash to cover contingencies.EndsFCO travel advice represents an objective assessment of the risks to British nationals. It is designed to help them choose whether to travel and how to reduce their exposure to danger. It is reviewed regularly.