§ Mr. ClappisonTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development how much funding is given by the Government to the Palestinian Negotiation Support Unit; and what conditions are attached to the use of the funding. [139388]
§ Hilary BennDFID has committed a total of £9.2 million to support the Palestinian Negotiation Support Unit (NSU). This funding covers the period 1999 to 2006. To date £5.25 million has been disbursed.
The purpose of this project is to provide professional legal, technical, policy and communications advice to the Palestinian authorities in preparation for, and during, permanent status negotiations with Israel. Following the collapse of formal negotiations the NSU has broadened its role by seeking to encourage the resumption of permanent status negotiations by contributing to a variety of diplomatic peace initiatives. The project supports those in the Palestinian Authority who are committed to peace.
The project is managed on behalf of the Palestinian authorities by the Adam Smith Institute. There are no specific conditions attached, but it is subject to DFID's usual checks and balances to ensure funds are disbursed in accordance with the agreed objectives. In addition four other governments, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands and Denmark provide complementary funding. We are currently establishing with these partners, and with the NSU, a framework for the overall management of the project.