Sudan (Hansard, 21 October 2003)

§ Hilary Benn

We are optimistic about the prospects for peace. There is a good chance of agreement this year. There are outstanding problems which need to be resolved, on power and wealth sharing, the three conflict areas (of Southern Blue Nile, the Nuba Mountains and Abyei) and ceasefire and security issues. But discussion of these issues has now begun. On 25 September, the parties signed a Framework Agreement on Security Arrangements during the Interim Period. We will continue to offer the parties and mediators our full support and advice and remain actively involved in helping them reach a comprehensive peace agreement. Sudan will remain a priority for our diplomacy.

We have committed to over £220 million (including UK's share of EC food aid) to Sudan since 1991, predominantly for humanitarian purposes. Since the start of the peace process, we have broadened our assistance to Sudan to include direct support for this process and for rehabilitation work where possible. Funds for Sudan in 2002–03 total £20 million, including £5 million from the Africa Conflict Prevention Pool.

With others in the international community, we are now planning for recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction when there is peace. We are considering what support we can provide in Sudan immediately following a peace agreement, to ensure that the Sudanese people see early benefits of peace. We are also considering how we might support Sudan in the longer term. For example, re-integration of displaced persons, refugees, and armed forces; support for improvements to governance in Sudan; and relief of Sudan's huge debt arrears.

We recognise that a sustained international effort will be needed to help Sudan after a peace agreement and remain determined to play a full part in it.