UK Looking Into Four Companies Named in UN Report on DRC

The British Department of Trade and Industry has contacted four British companies that were mentioned in the UN report on the illegal exploitation of natural resources in the Democratic Republic of Congo. One of the four companies is De Beers.

A ministry spokeswoman quoted in the Independent On Sunday confirmed it “has been in contact with the companies concerned to discuss the panel report and the next steps”. The ministry has also requested additional information and evidence.

The four companies - De Beers, Oryx Natural Resources, Avient Air and Das Air - were listed as category III companies, meaning their cases are “unresolved cases referred to NCP [National Contact Points: representatives of the 34 countries subscribing to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guidelines - EG] for updating or investigation”. All four are denying the claims.

The DTI spokeswoman went on to say that if evidence of criminal activities is found the ministry will pass the details “for further enquiries and possible prosecution”.

In response to the inquiry a De Beers spokeswoman says “We are in talks with the DTI, but have nothing further to add at this stage”.