Written question asked by Lord Alderdice (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 27 November 2017, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 11 December 2017. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Monday, 11 December 2017 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Libya: Bomb Disposal

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government how they will check, and address, any delay or obstruction by the authorities in Misrata of the transfer to Sirte and Benghazi of UK de-mining equipment.

Answer: The provision of this equipment is to support a training programme in Misrata for Libyan Government of National Accord military and police units clearing mines and ordnance in Sirte. The equipment was delivered to Sirte on 27 October 2017. This will enable the return of families and allow other reconstruction and development activities to take place in safety following the removal of Daesh from that city. The training programme is being funded by the Governments of Germany and the United States, and is being delivered by a contractor. The British Embassy in Tripoli is closely following progress: our Defence Attaché has visited Misrata to inspect the equipment and view the training, as well as meeting with the local authorities in Sirte. We have also provided £1 million so far this year leading to training for more than 60 Explosive Ordnance Disposal operators from Benghazi, including police officers and National Safety Authority staff, and we will fund a £200,000 mine risk education project in Benghazi to start in December.

Secondary information