Written question asked by Lord Patten (Conservative), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Tunnicliffe (Labour) on Monday, 20 October 2008.

India: Orissa

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether they or non-governmental organisations supported by the United Kingdom are sending aid to the 8,000 Christian and Dalit refugees who have fled persecution to the camp at Raikia in Orissa state, India.

Answer: Camps such as the one at Raikia are organised and maintained by the Government of Orissa. At their request, the Indian Red Cross Society is providing medical services in Raikia through a non-governmental organisation. At the central level, the Department for International Development (DfID) supports the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, of which the Indian Red Cross Society is a member. It would not be appropriate for the UK Government to consider providing aid directly unless a specific request is received. However, DfID's Orissa tribal empowerment and livelihoods programme supports work with tribal communities in Kandhamal district in which the Raikia camp is located. So far the incidents in the district have not directly impacted on this programme.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 5322; 704 c80-1WA
Session: 2007-08
Subjects: Development aid India Internally displaced people Oppression Christianity Dalits
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk