To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of efforts to assist reconstruction following the earthquake in Pakistan; and what recent assessment he has made of the humanitarian situation, with particular reference to the onset of winter. (97035)

I have recently visited the earthquake affected areas and was able to see first hand the current situation and changes that have taken place one year on from the earthquake. Much progress has already been achieved, including semi-permanent shelters for thousands of affectees and all transitional health and education facilities made functional through the provision of interim structures like pre-fabricated buildings and weather proof tents.

The immediate challenge for the Pakistani Government is the on-coming winter for which, in collaboration with NGO’s and donors, they have prepared a comprehensive winter contingency plan. The UK stands by to provide additional assistance if required during this period.