Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Lord Hannay of Chiswick (Crossbench). It was answered by Lord Bach (Labour) on Monday, 31 March 2008.

Burma

Question: What is their assessment of the prospects for a meaningful dialogue between the Government and the Opposition in Burma over constitutional reform; and what they are doing to increase humanitarian aid to that country.

Answer: My Lords, the regime appears intent on resisting the UN Security Council’s call for a meaningful dialogue with the Opposition. It maintains that position, despite the fact that only an inclusive political process stands any chance of bringing stability and national reconciliation to Burma. UK humanitarian aid to Burma will increase from £9 million in 2007-08 to £18 million a year by 2010-11. The United Kingdom is one of the country’s biggest donors. In addition, the EU programme for Burma in 2007 was €19 million.

Secondary information