Written question asked by John Barrett (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 17 July 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 September 2003. It was answered by Hilary Benn (Labour) on Monday, 8 September 2003 on behalf of the Department for International Development.

Dept for International Development

Question: To ask the Minister of State, Department for International Development, if he will make a statement on the drought in southern Ethiopia.

Answer: John Barrett: To ask the Minister of State, Department for International Development if he will make a statement on the drought in southern Ethiopia. [127937] Hilary Benn: Inadequate rainfall affected food production in many parts of the country, leading vulnerable communities to experience food shortages and nutrition related illnesses. In response, food aid has been distributed, and supplementary and therapeutic feeding programmes have been established to assist those most affected. This response has helped to reduce levels of malnutrition. However recent reports have indicated high levels of child malnutrition persisting in some parts of southern region. In these districts, government and NGOs are distributing dry ration (cereals), targeted supplementary food and have established additional therapeutic feeding centres. The situation has now stabilised. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and are prepared to provide additional support as necessary.

Secondary information