Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 17 September 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 4 October 2004. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Monday, 4 October 2004 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will end UK military aid to Colombia; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will end UK military aid to Colombia; and if he will make a statement. [189751] Mr. Ingram: No. British military assistance to Colombia is focused primarily on Explosive Ordinance 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