112. The Memorandum which we received from the FCO on 1 February 1999[346] describing the up-to-date position in the fighting in Sierra Leone is both depressing and saddening. The sufferings of the people of Sierra Leone continue and no obvious end is in sight. We commend the resolute support which the British Government is giving to the restoration of democracy and to the alleviation of suffering. The aim of the achievement of lasting peace is one which we fully share. We need hardly add that activities by mercenary forces are hardly likely to help this process.