Mr. RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent discussions she has had with her counterparts in European Union member states regarding the provision of food and other aid to Ethiopia; and if she will make a statement. [120216]
§ Clare ShortThe EU is the largest single donor of food aid to Ethiopia—more than 400,000 metric tonnes (MT) has been pledged for this year; almost 47,000 MT has already been delivered to Djibouti. Britain contributes 17 per cent. of the cost of this food. My officials are in82W close contact with EU officials to monitor the delivery and distribution of EU food and non-food assistance in the current crisis.
Mr. RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement on how the food aid she is providing to Ethiopia will be distributed. [120213]
§ Clare ShortOur food aid is targeted at those populations most affected by recurrent rain failures, food insecurity, conflict and environmental degradation. This year we have provided over 22,000 metric tonnes of food aid bilaterally for vulnerable people in both the north and south of the country. This has been channelled through international non-governmental organisations who often work in partnership with the regional offices of the Disaster Prevention and Preparedness Commission.