§ Mr. RobathanTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development when he last examined the methods used by aid agencies funded by his Department to draw up lists of aid recipients in Zimbabwe; and if he will make a statement. [138409]
§ Hilary BennDFID routinely subjects all proposals for UK funding to detailed technical appraisal before spending is approved. In the case of food aid to Zimbabwe, our most recent pledge of £5 million to support the Emergency Operation of the World Food Programme (WFP) followed close examination of the operational procedures set out in the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the WFP and the Government of Zimbabwe on 25 September. This included the process for identifying those members of the community who are in greatest need, regardless of political considerations or affiliation. WFP conducts rigorous training of its Implementing Partners (NGOs) on these procedures
In addition to UK's support for the WFP Emergency Operation, DFID is also providing funds directly to international and local NGOs who are undertaking humanitarian work in Zimbabwe, focusing on HIV/ AIDS affected households, malnourished children and other vulnerable groups. Again, approval of financial support has been based upon careful technical appraisal of the approach and procedures for each proposal.
§ Mr. RobathanTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development pursuant to his answer of 5 November 2003,Official Report, column 653W, on Zimbabwe, if he will make it his policy to urge the United Nations to monitor delivery of food aid in Zimbabwe to its final recipients. [138550]
§ Hilary BennAs I indicated in my previous reply, the United Nations closely monitors the delivery of food aid to its final recipients by the UN World Food Programme 447W (WFP). In response to pressure from the UK and other donors, the WFP has already strengthened its own internal monitoring, evaluation and reporting activities. Particular emphasis is placed on monitoring and reporting of any incidences of political interference. WFP also undertakes post-distribution monitoring, in which vulnerable households who were targeted for assistance are interviewed to assess their views of the selection and distribution processes. Donors and the UNDP have jointly established a Relief and Recovery Unit with the purpose of co-ordinating information about all ongoing humanitarian activities funded by the international community. This covers not only food but also other forms of assistance such as medicines, seeds and fertilisers. It also covers the operations of NGOs directly funded by donors, outside the UN Emergency Operation.