Written question asked by Angus Robertson (Scottish National Party) on Thursday, 2 March 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 March 2006. It was answered by Ian Pearson (Labour) on Wednesday, 8 March 2006 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment his Department has made of (a) the overall security situation and (b) the level of infrastructural readiness in Democratic Republic of Congo with regard to the proposed June date for elections; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: The security situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) remains fragile. Despite the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission (MONUC)'s operations against armed groups, militias and ill-disciplined Congolese army soldiers continue to persecute civilians. We continue to support MONUC's robust approach to protecting civilians and tackling militias.The DRC is making progress towards holding elections by June 2006. The new constitution has been promulgated, and the electoral law has been agreed by Parliament. The size of the country and its lack of infrastructure bring immense logistical challenges, but the successful referendum on 18 December shows that these are surmountable. We and EU partners will continue to contribute logistical support through the UN and to press all parties to respect the transitional process, stick to the timetable and ensure the elections are free and fair.

Secondary information