§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if he will make a statement on the development role that his Department is taking in Ethiopia. [172266]
§ Hilary BennThe problems facing Ethiopia are immense. Almost one-half of its 70 million people live below the national poverty line. Hunger, HIV/AIDS and the need to provide basic services pose enormous challenges. On current plans, DFID is increasing expenditure from £19 million during 2003–04 to £85 million in 2005–06. This will include substantial direct budget support—while also targeting assistance to critical areas such as the struggle against food insecurity and HIV/AIDS and the need to improve basic education and health services. While our focus is on the long-term, we also continue to respond to immediate humanitarian needs as they arise.
In addition to providing direct assistance to reduce poverty in Ethiopia, DFID officials are promoting more coordinated and poverty-focused donor activity. We are also involved in wider issues that could threaten development—such as the need for peace and security in the region.