Written question asked by Angus Robertson (Scottish National Party) on Wednesday, 12 May 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 May 2004. It was answered by Bill Rammell (Labour) on Thursday, 20 May 2004 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 assessment his Department has made of the claims of cross-border activity by the United Self-Defence Forces of Colombia in Venezuela; when this assessment was last revised; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment his Department has made of the claims of cross-border activity by the United Self-Defence Forces of Colombia in Venezuela; when this assessment was last revised; and if he will make a statement. [173818] Mr. Rammell: Alleged cross-border activities by the United Self-Defence Forces of Colombia and other illegally armed groups are a matter for the Governments of Venezuela and Colombia. The border between the two countries covers more than 2,200 km. It is porous and difficult to secure completely with the resources available. British diplomatic staff in Bogota and Caracas periodically visit the border region.

Secondary information