HC Deb 15 July 2002 vol 389 c41W
John Barrett

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what impact the ban on livestock exports is having on the humanitarian situation in Somalia. [68819]

Clare Short

The livestock trade is a very important sector for the Somali economy. The current trade restrictions are having a negative impact on people's livelihoods and on the revenue of regional administrations. We continue to lobby for the lifting of restrictions.

John Barrett

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what difficulties have arisen in the provision of humanitarian assistance in Somalia as a result of the recent violence in the country. [68814]

Clare Short

Insecurity in Somalia has hampered the provision of humanitarian assistance over the past decade, particularly in the south. United Nations agencies and international non-government organisations (through whom the UK and EU make their contribution) provide support through cross-border operations. Violence in the regions of Bay, Puntland and Gedo continues to make humanitarian access difficult.

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