Mr. Streeter: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if her Department is planning new initiatives in Sudanfollowing the renewal of links between Her Majesty's Government and the Government of Sudan. [91193]Mr. Foulkes: Our capacity to respond to humanitarian needs in Sudan was not interrupted by the withdrawal from Khartoum of ourAmbassador and his British staff. Humanitarian aid has continued to be delivered by international non-governmental organisations andUN agencies are we have liaised closely with Ambassador's staff out-posted to Nairobi. The humanitarian situation in Sudan is muchbetter than last year and so far we have committed £9 million.Ending the civil war in Sudan and finding a just political settlement continue to be the key to enable the Sudanese people torebuild their lives. The renewal of links with the Government of Sudan will allow us to recommence our close dialogue with theKhartoum authorities on this issue.