§ Vera BairdTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what steps the Government will take to support the role of the UN in co-ordinating humanitarian relief efforts. [105181]
§ Clare ShortIt is essential that international plans are co-ordinated. This is the role of the UN Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). We 501W have provided £150,000 to support their Iraq co-ordination centre in Cyprus and have seconded two members of staff.
§ Vera BairdTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what steps the Government will take to ensure that humanitarian assistance is given on the basis of need by impartial and independent organisations. [105212]
§ Clare ShortThe UK is committed to humanitarian assistance being provided by civilian agencies wherever possible, on the basis of need, and not as part of a military strategy. We are supporting the role of UN Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in co-ordinating humanitarian assistance. DFID funds for humanitarian assistance are disbursed through independent agencies.