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Pakistan: Evacuation of Afghans

08 November 2023

Lead MP

Johnny Mercer

Debate Type

Ministerial Statement

Tags

Foreign Affairs
Other Contributors: 23

At a Glance

Johnny Mercer raised concerns about pakistan: evacuation of afghans in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Government Statement

Foreign Affairs
Government Statement
The Government have acted decisively to relocate eligible Afghans following the collapse of Afghanistan. The Afghan relocations and assistance policy (ARAP) and the Afghan citizens resettlement scheme (ACRS) will continue to facilitate relocation under these programmes. However, due to changing security assessments, the requirement for settled accommodation before travel has been removed. The MOD is developing a new relocation plan to move approximately 2,800 ARAP-eligible personnel by December 2023. Families will initially be accommodated in service family accommodations or transitional housing if necessary.

Shadow Comment

Alison Thewliss
Shadow Comment
The Minister's response offers no reassurance to constituents concerned about their Afghan relatives in Pakistan. Shadow asks for clarity on the number of Afghans waiting for UK Government processing and details about eligibility criteria for charter flights from Islamabad, where people are warned not to go outside due to arrest risks. Calls for clear information and assurances from the government.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About House of Commons Debates

House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.