Britain hints at backing for Sudan sanctions if no aid for Darfur victims

LONDON, July 7 (AFP) — Prime Minister Tony Blair warned Wednesday that Britain could back sanctions against Sudan if much needed foreign aid fails to reach victims of the conflict in the western Darfur region.

Speaking in parliament, Blair said he reviewed the crisis Tuesday with UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, and that “there is food there now” ready to be distributed to those who need it.

But, he added, the Sudanese authorities had to do their part as well, “and if they do not cooperate, we will have to consider what further measures we will take”.