HOT STUFF FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

12.35.27pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 8th Mar 2007

This is a good example of how simple technology can help the poorest people on the planet

Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne helped to demonstrate the benefits of a new solar cooker - using the sun's rays to cook food - as part of the events around International Women's Day.

Pictured here with Lynne Featherstone MP, the Liberal Democrat shadow international development secretary, Chris Huhne is urging 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.

Chris Huhne MP said: "This is a good example of how simple technology can help the poorest people on the planet. Solar cookers save energy and also save forests from deforestation while ensuring that women do not put themselves at risk outside their refugee camp in the process of foraging for firewood. So solar cookers also save lives.

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

Lynne Featherstone MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Secretary for International Development 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 our sisters from rape and murder."