Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what steps he is taking to resolve the escalation in conflict in Kachin and northern Shan States, Burma, and the displacement of several thousands of civilians in that area.

We have been a consistent supporter of Burma's peace process, aimed at ending the long-running conflict between the military and the ethnic armed groups. This includes practical support delivered through both the multi-donor Joint Peace Fund and the Peace Support Fund, as well as technical advice and expertise. The UK has provided over £18.1 million in essential humanitarian and health assistance in Kachin and Northern Shan states from 2012 until the end of last financial year, and will provide approximately a further £5 million this year.