§ Mrs. SpelmanTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment she has made of the impact of the political instability in Zimbabwe on regional security. [54260]
§ Mr. MacShaneI have been asked to reply.
The situation in Zimbabwe is having a negative impact on Southern Africa. The crisis has increased levels of illegal immigration from Zimbabwe into neighbouring countries, created economic imbalances in border areas and, more generally, reduced investor confidence in the region. All of these threaten the stability and security of Southern Africa. Regional governments will need to remain closely involved in helping to secure a lasting solution to the crisis.