§ Mr CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what requests for financial assistance, and for what projects, have been made by the Sri Lanken Government to her Department in the last two years. [40518]
§ Clare ShortWe have agreed with the Government of Sri Lanka that DFID's programme will focus on inter-communal reconciliation, livelihood security for the poor in conflict areas and basic education. Details of our work in Sri Lanka are outlined in our Country Strategy Paper, a copy of which is in the Library of the House.
Full details of DFID's programme in Sri Lanka were also provided in my answer to a previous question from my hon. Friend on 18 December 2001, Official Report, 18 December 2001, column 190W.
My officials have also been approached by the Government of Sri Lanka for new programmes to support social harmony through basic education and for confidence building measures in support of the peace process. Design of these programmes is underway.
In 2001 DFID declined a proposal for support to the textile industry because it fell outside the agreed focal areas.