§ Alan SimpsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what logistical support his Department has offered to address the humanitarian crisis in southern Africa. [85080]
§ Mr. IngramThe Department for International Development (DFID) is the lead Department for humanitarian assistance by Her Majesty's Government. The Ministry of Defence has not received any requests to provide logistical support to those providing humanitarian assistance in southern Africa, but officials are in touch with those in DFID. The Ministry of Defence would naturally consider any requests for military assistance.