HC Deb 14 March 2001 vol 364 cc656-7W
11. Mr. Gardiner

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what measures her Department is taking to reduce conflict and promote peace in Africa. [152219]

Clare Short

Half the countries and 20 per cent. of the population of sub-Saharan Africa are living under conditions of conflict. This is a cause of massive suffering and a barrier to development on the continent. My Department, the FCO and MOD have arranged a high level seminar at the Queen Elizabeth 11 conference centre on 26 March to discuss with representatives of Africa and the whole international community how we can better resolve these conflicts in Africa. A paper analysing the course and nature of African conflict has been prepared for the conference and I will place copies in the Library and would welcome comments from Members.

25. Mr. Browne

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what action her Department is taking, in co-operation with other Government Departments, to address violent conflict in Africa. [152233]

Clare Short

Twenty per cent. of the population of sub-Saharan Africa are living under conditions of conflict. Reducing conflict is critical if there is to be sustained development and poverty reduction in Africa. We have established new arrangements in Whitehall to develop joint policies and common approaches for conflict prevention and peacekeeping.

28. Mr. Tony Lloyd

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what initiatives her Department is taking to address the challenge of conflict prevention and resolution in Africa. [152236]

Clare Short

More than 20 countries in sub-Saharan Africa are currently affected by or recovering from violent conflict. Violent conflict is one of the biggest barriers to development in Africa.

We have established new arrangements in Whitehall to develop joint policies and common approaches for conflict prevention and peacekeeping.