§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what contribution has been made by her Department to the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission in Sierra Leone. [66998]
§ Clare ShortMy Department has been involved since 1999 in establishing the Anti-Corruption Commission in Sierra Leone, from initial feasibility studies, detailed organisational design work, refurbishment of office accommodation, and the provision of equipment. We have allocated £1.45 million to the organisation since October 2000. Currently four British anti-corruption experts are attached to the commission providing technical support on prevention, and helping to investigate cases. Publicity and prevention campaigns have been launched in a number of key areas, helping to place corruption at the very top of the political agenda.