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Home Office

Answer

Dr. Starkey: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions his Department has had with the Department for International Development on policies to support the rural economy in Kosovo to help reduce the pressure of economic migration to (a) the UK and (b) other countries in the European Union. [5283] Angela Eagle: Our Departments have engaged in extensive discussion on all aspects of the Kosovo crisis. In 1999-2000 the United Kingdom committed £110 million to humanitarian assistance, including support to Kosovan refugees in neighbouring countries. In January 2000 it was agreed the UK would commit a further £5 million a year to a longer-term programme of technical assistance, including mine clearance and improvements to community infrastructure. We also participate in the work of the European Commission, which focuses on helping to restart the rural community, including by providing agricultural inputs and audits for farmers and other rural workers. The aim of the Government's engagement in the Balkans is to promote peace and stability and alleviate poverty in the region. Providing stability and economic opportunities for the people of Kosovo is an essential pre-requisite to reducing emigration pressures.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

5283; 372 c902W

Session

2001-02

Subjects

Development aid Department for International Development EU countries Economic situation Migration Rural areas Technical assistance Kosovo Departmental coordination

Contains statistics

Yes

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk