HC Deb 16 January 2002 vol 378 c325W
Ms Atherton

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what representations she has made to the Botswanian Government regarding the Botswanian Government's plans to withdraw water from the Sanbushaman of the central Kalahari at the end of January. [26882]

Clare Short

Our high commissioner to Botswana has discussed issues relating to the San with the Government of Botswana at both ministerial and local authority level. In December 2001, together with two other EU heads of mission, he visited Ghanzi where the district council is responsible for the provision of basic services to the San living in the central Kalahari Game Reserve. The group had discussions with local officials and NGOs involved with the San and visited some San settlements. Our high commission continues to monitor the situation.