§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what aid is being given to Malawi; and if she will make a statement. [51643]
§ Clare ShortMy Department has allocated £70 million in the 2002–03 financial year, making DFID the largest donor in Malawi. Assistance is concentrated on rural livelihoods, health, education and governance. There has been a substantial shortfall in the country's 2002 maize harvest due to unusually heavy rains and flooding last year. Since January, DFID has provided £4.6 million in food relief for distribution through local nongovernmental organisations. We are helping Government with preparation of a medium term food security strategy and stand ready to provide more direct food aid when April/May harvest figures are clarified.