Local MP Mark Hunter encourages government to promote solar cookers

10.07.12am GMT Wed 21st Mar 2007

Mark promotes solar cookers with Lynne Featherstone, Shadow Secretary for International Development

In connection with International Women's Day, local MP Mark Hunter with his Liberal Democrats colleague Shadow Secretary for International Development, Lynne Featherstone MP, urged the British Government to investigate, promote, and encourage the use of solar cooking technologies in the developing world, especially in refugee camps in conflict-affected states.

Liberal Democrat MPs congregated in front of the House of Commons to bring this important issue to the attention of Government.

Speaking after the event, Mark Hunter said: "There is a danger for women and children who often leave the refugee camp in war afflicted countries in search of firewood for cooking. Many of them are attacked, raped and killed by militia bands. You can get a solar cooker for as little as 2 dollars. That's very little to pay to save people from rape and murder."

"I am delighted to support this campaign promoting such a simple cheap devise that saves lives. I hope the government will take on this simple cooking devise. It has to be the answer in the short-term. Solar- cookers save lives."