§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
To what extent there has been compliance with the United Nations Security Council Resolution of 11 June about the Sudan; and in particular whether the African Union Ceasefire and Disengagement Monitors are in position and equipped with adequate transport and communications. [HL3743]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanSignificant progress has been made on humanitarian access in Darfur. However, there are reports of continuing attacks by rebels and the Janjaweed militias. The Sudanese Government claim that they have taken action to improve the security situation, including by arresting over 40 Janjaweed members, and by deploying additional police from outside Darfur. However so far there is no evidence about the impact of these measures on the ground. Following the collapse of political talks in Addis Ababa on 17 July, we continue to press the parties to engage in good faith in political discussions.
The African Union-led Ceasefire Commission (CFC) has now started to conduct investigations into breaches of the ceasefire. They are partially deployed. They have over 60 monitors and support staff in Darfur (including the UK monitor), and others are on their way. They are also working to deploy more aircraft and vehicles, and to enhance their logistics and communications systems.