Written question asked by Michael Moore (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 4 February 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 12 February 2003. It was answered by Bill Rammell (Labour) on Wednesday, 12 February 2003 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what discussions he has had with the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo on implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 1457 in respect of ending illegal activities relating to conflict diamonds; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Moore: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo on implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 1457 in respect of ending illegal activities relating to conflict diamonds; and if he will make a statement. [96534] Mr. Rammell: Officials have had regular contact with the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo regarding implementation of the Kimberley Process certification scheme to regulate the international trade in rough diamonds. The DRC is now a participant in the scheme, which we see as the most effective way of dealing with the illicit trade in diamonds--particularly conflict diamonds. The scheme came into force on 1 January 2003 and the Government of the DRC has reported a substantial increase in the volume of diamonds being channelled through legitimate sources since this date. Successful implementation of the scheme in the DRC is clearly linked to the current peace process. We will continue to encourage the DRC and others to implement in full. Together with the European Commission, we stand ready to offer technical assistance toachieve that, if asked.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 96534; 399 c792-3W;399 c790-1W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Trade Smuggling UN resolutions Democratic Republic of the Congo Diamonds
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk