To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the effect of the situation in Zimbabwe on the rest of southern Africa. [123687]

The crisis in Zimbabwe is increasingly damaging regional economies. It has adversely impacted on inflation and interest rates in neighbouring countries. Negative perceptions of Zimbabwe have deterred foreign direct investment and tourism to the region. Zimbabwe's neighbours are also suffering from an influx of cheap Zimbabwean goods and largely unskilled Zimbabwean migrants; and from an increase in the cross border spread of foot and mouth disease.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has held with President Mbeki about measures to restore democracy and prosperity to Zimbabwe. [123688]

My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary discussed Zimbabwe with President Mbeki and Foreign Minister Zuma during his trip to South Africa on 13 May. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister also discussed Zimbabwe with President Mbeki at the G8 Summit at Evian on 1 June. President Mbeki will be in London for the Progressive Governance Summit on 13–14 July.We support South Africa's continuing efforts to bring about dialogue between Zimbabwe's ruling party and the opposition.