I have received numerous emails and letters regarding South Sudan and I would like to provide an update here on my website.
As you note, the fourth anniversary of South Sudanese independence should be a time for celebration, instead 2.2 million are displaced from their homes and 4.6 million are at risk of life-threatening hunger. It is appalling that the country's leaders have continually failed to meet the hopes and aspirations of their people while squandering the country's oil wealth on a senseless war. All sides are responsible for ongoing military actions, violations of international humanitarian law, and widespread human rights abuses against civilians, including children.
The South Sudanese Parliament's decision to temporarily extend the government must be used for one purpose: to secure a peace deal immediately and form a transitional government of national unity. Working with the US, Norway and EU partners, I know the United Kingdom stands steadfast in its support to the people of South Sudan, today and for the long term. I urge all sides to finally put the people first and demonstrate the leadership necessary to forge a lasting peace.
I can reassure you that the Department for International Development will continue to lead the international response to the humanitarian situation in South Sudan. In 2014 the UK committed £132 million to the humanitarian response in South Sudan. Building on this work, this year the UK is providing an additional £40 million in emergency assistance for people affected by the ongoing conflict. This will be used to delivery emergency aid and food aid, and to scale up transport and logistics resources on the ground.
Thank you again to those who contacted me regarding these matters. Please continue to write to me with any of your questions and concerns and I will update my website with my views.