Written question asked by Lord Hylton (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Tunnicliffe (Labour) on Thursday, 12 February 2009.

Gaza

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will take steps to enable $93 million, currently held by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, to be spent on capital programmes and reconstruction in Gaza, as originally intended.

Answer: The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reported prior to the recent conflict in Gaza that UNRWA infrastructure projects in Gaza valued at $93 million had been halted due to a lack of raw materials as a result of the closure of the border crossings. Following the conflict the immediate priority for the UK Government has been to press for full and unhindered access for humanitarian personnel and supplies. These supplies include materials essential for the repair of humanitarian infrastructure, such as water and sanitation facilities. This issue has been raised repeatedly with the Israeli authorities at the highest levels. The World Bank, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and European Community (EC) will take the lead in co-ordinating international efforts on reconstruction. A needs assessment is planned which is expected to report in three months. The UK Government will work closely with international partners to ensure that the goods required for reconstruction are able to enter Gaza.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 707 c226WA; 1080
Session: 2008-09
Subjects: Capital investment International assistance Infrastructure Palestine Reconstruction Gaza UNRWA
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk