§ Jeremy CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions806W have been held with the Government of Uganda concerning child soldiers participating in past and current internal disputes; and if he will make a statement. [117690]
§ Mr. RammellWe support the Government of Uganda in its determination to bring an end to the suffering caused by the rebel group, the Lord's Resistance Army, who are known to kidnap and use children as soldiers. In recent discussions we have encouraged the government to seek a peaceful solution to the conflict.
We have also discussed with the Ugandan Government the recent reports of underage soldiers being recruited by government defence units in the north. The Government of Uganda have assured us that they are cooperating with UNICEF to identify and demobilise the recruits. Our High Commission is monitoring the situation.