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.

As a member of the global coalition against Daesh, the UK has provided over £15 million to support UN stabilisation programmes. This is helping to secure liberated areas and support the renovation of water facilities, power networks, clinics and schools. UK funding is helping the Governor of Ninevah’s office to assess needs and priorities in Mosul, such as repairs to infrastructure. The UK supports the UN Mine Action Service’s counter Improvised Explosive Device programme, which is working to clear liberated areas of Daesh explosives.

Since 2015 over 862,000 people have returned to their homes in Iraq, supported by UN stabilisation programmes with funding from the UK and other international partners.