Written question asked by John Bercow (Conservative) on Thursday, 20 April 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 24 April 2006. It was answered by Ian Pearson (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 April 2006 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo on addressing the needs of street children.

Answer: The UK regularly reminds the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) authorities of the need to protect the rights of all vulnerable groups, including street children. The UK contributes to programmes through the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), Save the Children and other non-governmental organisations which aim to protect children. We maintain close and regular contact with the DRC President's ambassador for children, and will continue to work with civil society groups and the Congolese Government to push for further action to bring those who abuse children to justice. We will continue to urge the DRC Government to take more action on child welfare.

Secondary information