Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Lord Campbell of Pittenweem (Liberal Democrat). It was answered on Tuesday, 21 June 2005 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Armed Conflict (Africa)

Question: While accepting that the circumstances of no two countries are ever exactly the same, does the Minister see some parallels between what is happening in Sudan and what is happening in Zimbabwe—oppressive Governments abusing the human rights of their citizens, rendering thousands homeless and exposing millions to the possibility of starvation? At Gleneagles we shall talk of lifting people out of poverty. Should we not be considering how we can protect the people of Africa, particularly in Sudan and Zimbabwe, or must we stand by, impotent and frustrated, while their very lives and dignity are taken from them by their own Governments?

Answer: There are parallels, of course, and the right hon. and learned Gentleman is right to point to the need for protection. Security and protection is a core part of what we want to see achieved. We hope that at Gleneagles we can draw up a comprehensive package that will see more support provided to the African Union. Where the African Union has deployed its forces in Sudan, it has been successful in bringing about a far more peaceful situation. We need to see more of that.

Secondary information