Written question asked by Lord Allan of Hallam on Wednesday, 12 November 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 18 November 2003. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Tuesday, 18 November 2003 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will suspend military aid to Colombia until the Colombian Government takes action to comply with UN recommendations on human rights.

Answer: Mr. Allan: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will suspend military aid to Colombia until the Colombian Government takes action to comply with UN recommendations on human rights. [138945] Mr. Ingram: British military assistance to Colombia includes bomb disposal training and provision of British military education. It complements Colombian efforts to reduce the number of deaths, both civilian and military, from explosive devices, and introduces Colombian military personnel to British defence concepts in key areas such as Rules of Engagement and democratic and accountable control of the armed forces. In view of the clear humanitarian benefits this British military assistance offers to the Colombian people, we do not intend to suspend it.

Secondary information