§ 21. Mr. Patrick HallTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement on her Department's policy towards Sudan. [46061]
§ Clare ShortSudan needs peace above all else. The UK is playing an increased part in the international effort to bring about peace. We have appointed a UK Special Representative for Sudan who will head a Unit made up of DFID and FCO staff. Their task will be to co-ordinate the UK contribution to the international efforts for peace in as many ways as possible.
In the meantime we continue to address urgent humanitarian needs arising from conflict and drought, and we have provided over £40 million of humanitarian assistance to Sudan through NGOs and UN relief agencies since 1997. A more substantial UK development programme depends on an end to the war.
§ 22. Paul GogginsTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what action her Department is taking to promote peace in Sudan. [46062]
§ Clare ShortSince my visit to Sudan in January my Department, in consultation with the FCO, has endeavoured to raise the profile of the peace process in Sudan within the international community, and identify areas where the UK can play a key role in promoting peace.
We are making some progress and our influence is growing, particularly through the recent appointment of a Special UK Representative for Sudan, Alan Goulty. He will be supported by a joint FCO/DFID-staffed unit responsible for co-ordinating and participating in dialogue between both sides in the Sudanese conflict. The new unit 991W will also ensure continuing links with other important international partners who share our wish for lasting peace in Sudan.