§ Angus RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment his Department has made of the security situation in the Central African Republic; how it has developed since September 2002; and if he will make a statement. [136635]
§ Mr. MullinIn a military coup of 15 March 2003, forces loyal to General Bozize took over the capital Bangui, ousting the incumbent President Patasse. After an initial spate of looting and retribution, troops of the Communaute Economique et Monetaire de 1'Afrique Centrale helped restore control. The situation remains volatile outside Bangui, where remnants of Patasse's supporters and local militia have taken advantage of the instability. The transitional government is gradually restoring calm. The government supports international efforts to restore stability to the country.
§ Angus RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with members of the governments of(a) EU member states, (b) EU candidate countries, (c) member states of the Economic Community of Central African States, (d) South Africa and (e) the USA on the developments in the (i) political and (ii) humanitarian situation in the Central African Republic since March; and if he will make a statement. [136641]
§ Mr. MullinSince March this year, the Government has had regular discussions with international partners in the EU, UN and the region on the political and358W humanitarian situation in the Central African Republic, and has supported efforts to restore peace and stability there.