Thursday, March 17 2005 21:58 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

London: Britain will no longer give aid to Nepal's police, prison services and the Prime Minister's office following King Gyanendra's assumption of absolute power in the Himalayan kingdom, it was officially announced today (March 17, 2005).

"In the current environment we consider it inappropriate to continue support to the Police, Prison Service and Prime Minister's Office" in Nepal, UK's International Development Minister Gareth Thomas said, adding Britain's assistance would continue to be reviewed in light of recent political events in the Himalayan kingdom.

A total of 2.4 million pounds had been committed by the UK to Nepal, but 1.3 million pounds remains unspent and will now be cancelled. Following the February one royal takeover in Nepal, the UK Government carried out an initial assessment of the implications for its development partnership with the Himalayan kingdom.

Thomas said the criteria against which decisions will be made now are, "Our ability to make an effective contribution towards the Millennium Development Goals and the safety and security of staff. We need to ensure that our programmes will continue to benefit poor and excluded people in Nepal.

"It is vital that the Government of Nepal maintain agreed financial allocations to essential development services such as health, education and not divert these for other purposes."