HL Deb 26 January 2005 vol 668 cc157-8WA
Lord Alton of Liverpool

asked Her Majesty's Government:

In light of the Statement on 12 January to the United Nations Security Council by the senior United Nations envoy to Sudan, Jan Pronk, that "we may move into a period of intense violence unless swift action is taken", what action they are taking to implement the Security Council Resolution taken under Chapter 7 Powers requiring the disarmament of the Janjaweed by the expiry date in August 2004. [HL753]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

We are greatly concerned by the latest report to the United Nations Security Council on Darfur. As Security Council Resolution 1556 of 30 July makes clear, both the Government of Sudan and the rebels must comply with the requirements placed on them by the Security Council, including ending impunity and preventing human rights violations, or face a range of possible measures, including sanctions. We are discussing, with partners in the Security Council, and in light of developments on the ground, how best to respond.

Lord Alton of Liverpool

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the mandate given to the African Union serving in Darfur, Sudan is adequate; and what consideration they are giving to the extension and clarification of this mandate. [HL754]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

It is for the African Union's (AU) Peace and Security Council to decide the mandate of the AU mission in Darfur. We fully supported their decision in October 2004 to increase the size of the mission and to broaden its mandate to include more proactive monitoring and to enable them to protect civilians in the immediate vicinity under imminent threat of attack. We have provided over £14 million in support of the AU mission.