International Health Regulations

Emphasised the need for international cooperation in fighting pandemics and called on the UK Government to ensure public understanding of the WHO treaty negotiations while addressing misinformation.

Asked for confirmation that the Health Minister's position remains unchanged regarding not signing up to any accord that would compromise the UK’s ability to make domestic decisions on national measures concerning public health.

Questioned the WHO's past performance in crises and sought assurance that no external organisation will have decision-making power over internal UK health matters.

Welcomed confirmation from the Minister that the current drafting of the proposed treaty is not acceptable, emphasising the need for a vote in Parliament if the UK decides to accede to the treaty.

Asked about the frequency with which the Minister engages with devolved Governments regarding the UK Government's negotiating positions on these matters.

Congratulated the Member for securing an urgent question and emphasised the need to maintain sovereignty over domestic health decisions, rejecting supranational control.

Expressed concern about surrendering UK powers to a non-democratic international body and sought assurance that no such surrender will occur.

Agreed with Suella Braverman's concerns but highlighted the need for international collaboration and cooperation on global health. Emphasised that while the UK will continue to work internationally, domestic decisions must remain sovereign.

Supported the idea of working collaboratively with other nations during pandemics but emphasised the importance of data sharing and preventing future emergencies without tying hands domestically.

Agreed that collaboration does not mean compulsion. Stressed the need to look after domestic citizens first before supporting global efforts, advocating for more domestic vaccine manufacturing capability.

Called for a deferment of WHO votes on pandemic treaty until other nations have had time to examine details, citing rule violations by the WHO in breaking its own rules regarding advance drafts and voting deadlines.

Reiterated concerns about trusting bureaucracies based on past performance during previous pandemics. Reaffirmed commitment to not signing any treaty that undermines national sovereignty.

Voiced grave concerns from constituents regarding the powers and rights requested by the WHO, emphasising opposition to signing away UK sovereignty without a prerequisite requirement for participation in WHO.

Suggested publishing amendments sought by the Government to persuade other nations. Emphasised that there must be no new legal requirements imposed on the United Kingdom as part of any agreement.

Critiqued absence of Labour Back Benchers during debate, suggesting it would be better not signing treaty at all. Demanded a meaningful vote in the House before ratification if signed.

Urged Minister not to sign the treaty due to concerns about WHO's influence and funding sources. Advocated for enhanced cooperation without legally binding commitments.

Argues that WHO membership gives the UK a seat at the table in global health discussions, allowing to amplify UK priorities internationally. Believes agreeing a high-level treaty among 194 member states without impinging on national sovereignty will be beneficial.

States that Labour party's disinterest in the debate is unsurprising, given its focus on national sovereignty. Emphasises importance of national democracy and collaboration through the principle of national sovereignty, opposing supranationalism.

Clarifies that UK Government will not sign up to an accord or amendments under WHO that would cede sovereignty in domestic decisions on public health measures. Highlights that respecting sovereign rights remains a principle in the drafted amendments.

Thanks the Minister for answering the urgent question, without elaborating further on her own position or contributions to the debate.