§ Vernon CoakerTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what money she has set aside from her Department's 2003–04 budget for the humanitarian crisis in(a) Southern Africa, (b) Ethiopia and (c) Afghanistan. [108019]
§ Clare ShortThe current position is as follows:
(a) Southern Africa: DFID's 2003–04 programme budget for countries in Central and Southern Africa is £179 million. It has not yet been determined what proportion will be allocated for humanitarian assistance.
(b) Ethiopia: £19 million has been allocated to Ethiopia for 2003–04, of which just under half has been earmarked for humanitarian assistance. However, we continue to closely monitor the situation in Ethiopia and additional funds will be made available if necessary.
(c) Afghanistan: My Department is committed to provide at least £40 million official development assistance to Afghanistan in 2003–04. We do not budget separately for humanitarian and development assistance to Afghanistan.