UK calls for ban on cluster bombs, proper clean-up

The British Ambassador to Lebanon, Tom Fletcher, has described cluster bombs as “disgraceful weapons.” Speaking at the Second Meeting of the States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions Conference in Beirut, Fletcher stated: “we are all here for one objective only: to rid the world of cluster bombs. We should forget the diplomatic platitudes, the cocktails, the comfortable surroundings, and focus all our energies relentlessly towards that.” He expressed his support for the UN Convention on Cluster Munitions, which came into force in 2010. The Convention bans the use, development and stockpiling of cluster munitions. More than 100 countries have signed the convention, 62 as full state parties. Cluster bombs have been used widely in conflicts across the world. The bombs split before exploding, scattering hundreds of smaller bombs the size of tennis balls across the landscape. Cluster bombs frequently fail to explode immediately and are detonated years later when disturbed by a civilian or unsuspecting child. Lebanon has experienced the impact of cluster munitions first hand as the controversial weapons have been used widely by Israel. Although progress has been made in clearing Lebanese land, a considerable challenge remains. More than 200,000 unexploded munitions have been found in Lebanon since 2006. Lebanon and Iraq are considered among the most-heavily impacted states in the world. Fletcher warned that: “countries are still using cluster munitions that cause unacceptable harm to civilians should enrage us.” Fletcher urged the Convention’s non-signatories to reconsider their decisions. “We ask others to examine their consciences, we acknowledge the issues that prevent the universalisation of a full ban. But we must be creative, impatient and determined in overcoming these constraints.” Israel, the US and Russia are yet to sign the Convention. However, Fletcher warned: “Banning cluster bombs is not enough. We must also repair the damage that has been done.” “The UK is supporting stronger health systems, the largest element of our bilateral spending on development. We have committed more than £30 million to a 3 year Mine Action programme, focused on clearance and education about the risks from cluster bombs and other explosive remnants of war. In just 6 months, UK sponsored programmes in Cambodia, Laos, Mozambique and Vietnam have cleared 2.5 million square metres of land, and returned it to the communities for productive use. We have also committed £10 million over five years for mine action in Afghanistan. The UK has also contributed to the work of the Mine Advisory Group (MAG) working in south Lebanon. In 2007, the UK had already given £2.7 million to help remove 90,000 cluster bombs from around homes and farm areas.”