---

Dept for International Development

Answer

Mr. Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what controls have been exercised by her Department over the use of funds paid from the United Kingdom Government to European Union landmine clearance programmes; and for what those funds have been used. [74162] Clare Short: UK's contributions to the European Commission are subject to reporting and audit requirements. In 1998, EC expenditure (combined DG1A, DG1B, DGVIII, ECHO) on mines action totalled some 50.7 million euros (approximately £36 million) for programmes in 11 countries, and for research and development, and contribution to ICRC's Mines Appeal. The share attributable to the UK was £5.4 million. During the UK's Presidency of the European Union in the first half of 1998, we worked closely with member states to achieve more targeted discussions on European Union (EU) mine action within the EU Working Group on Disarmament and Security (CODUN); we urged greater transparency and accountability of European Commission (EC) activities and the implementation of the EU Joint Mine Action Programme. My Department has in addition committed £200,000 towards European Union trials for a multi-sensor detection system. We monitor the project, which is on-going, through reports and technical meetings.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

326 c681W; 74162

Session

1998-99

Subjects

Development aid Bomb disposal Finance Landmines European Commission EU aid