Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Support for Civilians Fleeing Gaza

06 February 2024 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Peter Grant SNP Glenrothes

Foreign Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Peter Grant raised concerns about support for civilians fleeing gaza in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • MP discussed the dire situation in Gaza, highlighting over 1.8 million internally displaced people and a daily death toll of around 250 individuals.
  • MP called on the UK Government to negotiate safe passage for civilians with close family members in the UK until it is safe for them to return home.
  • Minister acknowledged the severity of the situation and noted that the UK has committed 60 million to support humanitarian aid and essential services in Gaza.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Peter Grant SNP Glenrothes

The MP discussed the dire situation in Gaza, highlighting that over 1.8 million people are trapped and internally displaced due to conflict, with more than 27,000 deaths and a daily death toll of around 250 individuals. The speech emphasised the urgent need for humanitarian aid and safe passage for civilians out of Gaza. Peter Grant called on the UK Government to negotiate safe passage for civilians with close family members in the UK and to guarantee their right to come to the UK temporarily, until it is safe for them to return home.

Other contributors (2)
  • Name

    The hon. Member agrees that many constituents have been deeply affected by the crisis in Gaza.

  • Name

    While agreeing with the points made, he highlighted the significant number of refugees from Syria hosted by neighbouring countries.

Government Response

Leo Docherty

The Minister acknowledged the severity of the situation in Gaza and the substantial humanitarian crisis. He noted that the UK has committed £60 million this financial year to support crucial partners such as the UN, the British Red Cross, and others to help with food, fuel, water, healthcare, and shelter. The Government is focused on increasing aid provision and achieving a sustainable ceasefire. They have called for measures to open more routes into Gaza and restore essential services like water, fuel, and electricity. While safe legal routes exist, the minister stressed that improving conditions requires diplomatic efforts towards a humanitarian pause and ceasefire. He reiterated the UK's commitment through significant diplomatic engagement in the region and efforts to secure international support for reconstruction.

▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy