Granting genuine freedom to decide their own future will be a major relief for those still sheltered in welfare villages, said UK International Development Minister Mike Foster in response to the Sri Lankan Government's decision to open the centres from 1 December.

The UK will also provide additional transport, shelter, clean water and sanitation for the people returning home through a new £1 million grant to the International Organization of Migration, and will look to offer more support to other agencies, Mr. Foster further said.

'The UK will continue to support the clearance of landmines so people can return home safely and give them the chance to restart their lives,' he said.