§ Mrs. Curtis-ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what work he is doing with the Department for International Development to tackle the root causes of enforced migration, with particular reference to(a) human rights abuses and (b) inequality. [138271]
§ Mr. RammellI have been asked to reply.
Enforced migration deriving from human rights abuse and inequality starts with discrimination and marginalisation. Both the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and the Department for International Development (DFID) address these root causes in their work to promote human rights abroad. This year the FCO will fund over £12 million worth of grass roots human rights projects in more than 60 countries. Full details of the FCO's work to promote human rights can be found in the Annual Report on Human Rights, a copy of which was sent to all Members of the House. An electronic version is available at: www.fco.gov.uk/ humanrightsreport2003DFID is dedicated to the elimination of poverty through realisation of the human rights of the poorest people of the world. In 2002–03, spending related to human rights and empowerment totalled £112 million. DFID seeks to ensure that poor people are consulted on policies and decisions that affect them and are aware of their rights. This approach aims to promote social justice, including tackling human rights abuse. In October 2000, DFID published its strategy for achieving this goal, entitled "Realising Human Rights for Poor People". A copy was placed in the Library of the House.