HC Deb 19 December 2002 vol 396 cc910-1W
Mrs. Spelman

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what progress has been made on the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper of the Yemen. [87548]

Clare Short

The Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper was submitted by the Government of Yemen to the Boards of the World bank and the IMF at the end of July, and subsequently approved by both.

The World bank hosted a Consultative Group meeting in Paris during October, which was attended by representatives from the Government and from donor agencies operating in Yemen. At this meeting, both the Government and the donor community affirmed their commitment to work together in implementing the Poverty Reduction Strategy over the course of the next three years.

Detailed discussions are now under way in Sana'a about how to implement that commitment and monitor progress.

Mrs. Spelman

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what her Department is doing to work with the Government of Yemen(a) on their basic education programme and (b) reproductive health. [87549]

Clare Short

My Department does not currently have a programme of work with the Government of Yemen in either the basic education or reproductive ealth sectors. Through the Small Grants Scheme administered by the British Embassy, we are supporting some small-scale activities which are being implemented by non-governmental organisations at a local level.

Mrs. Spelman

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how much money her Department will give to the Yemen in 2002–03 and if this will increase within the Framework of the Resource Allocation Round. [87550]

Clare Short

My Department expects to provide funding worth around £2.28 million to Yemen in 2002–03. The outcome of the Resource Allocation Round for future years will be known early in 2003.

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