Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Topical Questions

Tuesday 21 June 2022 · 23 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 9 Partly answered 10 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Anne McLaughlin will head to Kigali for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting.
  • On Sri Lanka, the UK condemns violence against peaceful protesters and continues to work for calm.
  • Regarding the Chevening scholarships, 68 Ukrainian candidates shortlisted prior to Russia's invasion will be given good news.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Anne McLaughlin SNP
Democracy & Elections Foreign Affairs
Context

The question arises from the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Kigali.

Question

This Thursday I will be heading to Kigali for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting. Can she make a statement on her departmental responsibilities?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

This Thursday I will be heading to Kigali for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting. In a world where freedom and sovereignty are being threatened by aggressors, the Commonwealth is more important than ever. It represents a third of the world's population and about 30% of the votes at the United Nations. The British Government will be backing Kamina Johnson Smith, the Jamaican Foreign Minister, as the new Secretary-General to ensure that the Commonwealth delivers for all its members in areas such as trade, investment and defending democracy.

Answered
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Q2 Anne McLaughlin SNP
Foreign Affairs
Context

The question addresses the under-Secretary's previous statement about Sri Lanka and concerns over war crimes.

Question

In answer to an earlier question about Sri Lanka, the Under-Secretary said that she would continue to lobby the Sri Lankan Government. Given credible accusations of war crimes by people in their military, is lobbying really enough?

Answer from Vicky Ford

On Sri Lanka, let me start by absolutely emphasising again that violence against peaceful protesters is unacceptable. We absolutely condemn the violence we see happening at the moment and we are urging everybody towards calm. We will continue to work to make sure that we support the country through funding from our conflict, stability and security fund, which has supported peacebuilding, and we continue to respect the independence of the prosecutor when it comes to investigating war crimes of the past.

Partly answered

Not addressed: specific commitment to address war crime accusations directly

How: Continuing To Lobby, Supporting Peacebuilding Efforts

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Q3 Lee Anderson Reform Ashfield
Immigration Foreign Affairs
Context

The question stems from concerns about the European Court of Human Rights impeding the effectiveness of migration control measures.

Question

The Rwanda plan was designed to protect our borders, but the European Court of Human Rights is challenging it. Does my hon. Friend agree we should distance ourselves from the ECHR?

Answer from Vicky Ford

We were disappointed that last week's flight was unable to depart, but we are not deterred from doing the right thing in delivering on our plans to control our nation's borders. We are providing further information to the Court. It would not be appropriate to comment on individual cases at this time. However, we strongly believe that this project meets our obligations under both national and international law, and the Home Secretary has made it very clear that we will do what it takes to deliver this new partnership.

Partly answered

Not addressed: direct question about distancing from ECHR

How: Providing Further Information, Stating Belief In Compliance With Law

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Q4 David Lammy Lab Tottenham
Ukraine Foreign Affairs
Context

The question is about the reduction of humanitarian aid despite ongoing conflicts and starvation issues.

Question

Millions face starvation in Afghanistan, Yemen, Lebanon, Ethiopia, Mali, and Ukraine. Given the scale of these crises, why has humanitarian aid been reduced by 35% compared to pre-cut levels?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

We are a major donor of humanitarian aid. On the Ukraine crisis, we are the third largest donor in the world. Through our international development strategy, we are committing £3 billion-worth of humanitarian aid over the next three years.

Partly answered

Not addressed: specific reasons for 35% reduction

How: Committing To Ongoing Aid

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Q5 Jason McCartney Con
Ukraine
Context

The question concerns the impact of war on Ukrainian students' ability to participate in scholarship programmes.

Question

Chevening scholarships help exceptional international students study in the UK. What is being done to ensure that Ukrainian students can still access this programme despite their current situation?

Answer from Vicky Ford

Prior to Russia's terrible invasion, 68 Ukrainian candidates were shortlisted for interviews for those really special Chevening scholarships. Obviously, those interviews could not take place, but I am absolutely delighted to give those brilliant, talented and often young people some good news: they will all be offered scholarships. That will treble the number of Chevening scholarships offered to Ukraine. For those who are unable to take up their scholarships, if, for example, they are defending their country, they will be able to defer.

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Q6 Layla Moran Lib Dem Oxford West and Abingdon
Democracy & Elections
Context

The question addresses the imprisonment of a British national in Egypt on day 81 of hunger strike.

Question

Alaa Abdel Fattah, an Amnesty International prisoner of conscience imprisoned for his pro-democracy views since Sisi took power, is on day 81 of a hunger strike. Will she consider meeting his family to discuss how we can ensure his release?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I assure the hon. Lady that we are working hard to secure Alaa Abdel Fattah's release. Lord Ahmad has met the family and I am seeking a meeting with the Egyptian Foreign Minister who is due to visit the United Kingdom shortly, where I will raise this case.

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Q7 Mark Menzies Con
Foreign Affairs
Context

The question discusses the importance of peace and stability in Bosnia, which is being undermined by Russian destabilisation attempts.

Question

Last year, I visited Bosnia to understand first hand the situation in the country. What steps is my right hon. Friend taking to ensure peace and stability in the western Balkans?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

My hon. Friend is absolutely right; that is a vital issue. We are seeing attempts by Russia to destabilise the western Balkans. I recently visited Sarajevo, as has the Minister for Europe and North America, to do what we can to support the country through greater investment, so that there are alternatives to malign investment, and to make clear our support for security in the nation.

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Q8 Cat Smith Lab Lancaster and Wyre
Foreign Affairs
Context

The question concerns the humanitarian crisis caused by Israel's ongoing blockade of Gaza.

Question

Israel's blockade of Gaza has led to a severe humanitarian crisis. Will the Minister condemn this blockade and outline steps being taken to end it?

Answer from Amanda Milling

As it happens, after this session I will be travelling to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, which will obviously be a good opportunity to explore a number of different issues and our bilateral relationship with Israel.

Not addressed: specific condemnation or action plan

How: Planning Travel Instead

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Q9 Gavin Williamson Con Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge
Ukraine Foreign Affairs
Context

Drought conditions and the Russian invasion of Ukraine have led to severe food insecurity in the Horn of Africa, affecting millions. The UK has already provided substantial aid.

Question

Across the horn of Africa, we are seeing one of the worst droughts in 40 years. Coupled with the tragedy of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, that is pushing millions of people into starvation. What more can we do to help on the ground and save lives?

Answer from Vicky Ford

This is a terrible tragedy. So far this year, we have provided more than £72 million of additional support to countries in the region, which is helping about 8 million people. We played a vital role in convening a roundtable in Geneva that raised about $400 million. Last week, I wrote to the president of the World Bank to urge it to mobilise further funding urgently. I will meet representatives of the Disasters Emergency Committee later this week to discuss further steps.

Answered
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Q10 Alex Norris Labour (Co-op) Nottingham North and Kimberley
Foreign Affairs
Context

A constituent from Nottingham described severe human rights abuses, including political violence and property damage, affecting anglophones in north-west and south-west Cameroon.

Question

My constituent Godwin Suh from Bafut in Cameroon, who now lives in Nottingham, came to see me. He described the political violence that, as anglophones, he and his family have suffered. His brother is missing, his nieces and nephews have been hospitalised, and lately his house there has been badly damaged by Government forces. Will the Minister for Africa meet me and Godwin to hear more about the human rights challenges that many face in north-west and south-west Cameroon?

Answer from Vicky Ford

The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right; the human rights situation in north-west and south-west Cameroon is really concerning. There have been recent incidents with tragic civilian casualties. I would be happy to meet and discuss it with him.

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Q11 Felicity Buchan
Ukraine
Context

The UK is discussing a Marshall plan with international partners to help reconstruct Ukraine after the war. The MP suggested monetising seized Russian assets.

Question

I welcome the statement last week that we are talking to our international partners about a Marshall fund for Ukraine. I previously suggested that we should consider not only seizing the assets of sanctioned Russians, but monetising them, either by putting a lien on them or by outright sale. Clearly, that would need to be done in conjunction with partners. Has my right hon. Friend considered that?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

We are working with our allies and Ukraine on a new Marshall plan to help reconstruct Ukraine after the appalling war. There will be a Ukraine recovery conference in Lugano in the coming weeks, at which the United Kingdom will put forward our offer. We are looking at how we can seize Russian assets to help fund the rebuilding of Ukraine, which is something we are working on across Government and with our G7 partners.

Answered
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Q12 Meg Hillier Labour (Co-op) Hackney South and Shoreditch
Foreign Affairs
Context

A report found that five Hong Kong officials and six lawmakers own property in the UK. The report suggests these individuals are complicit in human rights violations.

Question

A recent report by the Hong Kong Watch non-governmental organisation found that five Hong Kong officials and six lawmakers complicit in the ongoing human rights crackdown currently own property in the UK, so will the Government now commit to using the Economic Crime (Transparency and Enforcement) Act 2022 to sanction these Hong Kong and Chinese officials?

Answer from Amanda Milling

We remain deeply concerned about the appalling human rights violations in China and about the deterioration of rights and freedoms in Hong Kong. We keep all evidence on potential designations under close review, guided by the objectives of the relevant sanctions regime, but it is not appropriate to speculate about future sanctions and designations as to do so would reduce their impact.

Partly answered

Not addressed: the specific use of Economic Crime (Transparency and Enforcement) Act 2022 to sanction individuals was not directly addressed

How: Not Appropriate To Speculate

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Q13 Caroline Dinenage Con Gosport
Defence
Context

A key lesson learned from Hurricane Irma in 2017 was the importance of having a naval presence in affected regions during hurricane season.

Question

It is vital that we do not forget the painful lessons we learned in the wake of Hurricane Irma in 2017, a key component of which is always to have a naval presence in the region ahead of hurricane season. Will the Minister please assure me those preparations are already being made?

Answer from Amanda Milling

The Department co-ordinated a cross-Government hurricane exercise earlier this month as part of its review of plans to ensure the UK provides a rapid and effective response this year. Officials also hosted a pre-hurricane season conference in May. Having visited Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands and the Cayman Islands, I totally understand the importance of hurricane preparedness. I reassure my hon. Friend that I met the Minister for the Armed Forces last week to discuss how our Departments can work together on an effective and appropriate response in the event of a major disaster.

Answered
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Q14 Sarah Champion Lab Rotherham
Foreign Affairs
Context

The FCDO has set an annual budget limit for the Independent Commission for Aid Impact, which prevents it from carrying out its workplan agreed with the Select Committee.

Question

Is the Foreign Secretary aware that the FCDO has set an annual budget limit for the Independent Commission for Aid Impact that will prevent it from carrying out the workplan to scrutinise UK aid that it previously agreed with my Select Committee? Will she look into this, please?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I am very happy to look into it and to discuss it with the hon. Lady.

Partly answered

Not addressed: specific commitment or timeline for investigation was not provided

How: Very Happy To Look Into

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Q15 Craig Tracey Con
Foreign Affairs

Question

I recently took over as chair of the all-party parliamentary group for Latvia, and it was a pleasure to meet my opposite number from the Latvian Parliament, Rihards Kols, last week to discuss the importance of our future work together. Does the Minister agree that, now more than ever, it is important that we strengthen even further our long-standing relationship with countries such as Latvia that share a common set of values and principles with the UK?

Answer from James Cleverly

I congratulate my hon. Friend on taking up his position. The UK enjoys close diplomatic, security and economic relations with Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. I recently went to Estonia, and my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary has also been to the region and taken part in the three seas initiative that co-ordinates a number of workstreams in the Baltic and other parts of eastern Europe.

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Q16 Imran Hussain Lab Bradford East
Foreign Affairs
Context

Concerns about the use of arbitrary arrest and detention in India, particularly under the Public Safety Act, have been raised.

Question

Since the illegal revocation of articles 370 and 35a, it has become absolutely clear that the right-wing Modi Government are bolder than ever before in their persecution of Kashmiris and minority groups in India. Most worrying, however, is the acceleration in their use of arbitrary arrest and detention of political and human rights activists, including Yasin Malik and hundreds of others, under the illegal Public Safety Act, which takes away any right to due process, yet the UK Government remain silent once more. Does the Foreign Secretary think it is right to continue negotiating a trade deal with the right-wing Modi Government, even at the expense of the blood of innocent men, women and children?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

We are very clear that it is for the Indian and Pakistani Governments to find a long-term solution to Kashmir.

Not addressed: the specific question about negotiating a trade deal was not addressed

How: For The Indian And Pakistani Governments

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Q17 Andrew Percy Con
Foreign Affairs Energy
Context

The question arises from a meeting with the Speaker of Alberta, who highlighted potential for energy support.

Question

Canada is a key partner. This morning I met the Speaker of Alberta who emphasised the potential for Alberta to help the UK through its present energy crisis. What is the Foreign Secretary doing to further deepen our relationship with Canada?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

Canada is a fellow member of G7, NATO, and Commonwealth. We speak regularly to my Canadian counterpart about how we can bolster our energy security through areas like nuclear co-operation.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not address specific steps taken or planned for the current UK energy crisis with Canada

How: Broad Statements, Omission Of Specifics

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Q18 Kim Johnson Lab Liverpool Riverside
Climate Foreign Affairs Environment
Context

Francia Márquez became the first black woman Vice-President in Colombia, where it is dangerous for activists to advocate.

Question

On Sunday, Francia Márquez made history as the first black woman elected VP in Colombia. Colombia is one of the most dangerous places for environmental activism. Will the Minister commit herself to working with Francia and her colleagues to ensure social and environmental rights are protected and UK aid prioritises activist protection?

Answer from Vicky Ford

We work in Colombia on projects for peace, stability, environment, and climate change. We will continue these efforts.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not commit to working specifically with Francia Márquez or prioritising protection of activists

How: Broad Statements, Omission Of Specifics

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Q19 Robert Jenrick Reform Newark
Economy Foreign Affairs Energy
Context

High energy prices are driving inflation, but OPEC is not intending to increase supply.

Question

The solution to the inflationary crisis driven by high energy prices and lack of supply is international. What is my right hon Friend the Foreign Secretary doing to challenge OPEC's position of not increasing oil and gas supply?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

We need more renewables, nuclear energy, and short-term oil/gas solutions. The Energy Secretary works closely with Gulf counterparts.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide specific actions being taken to encourage OPEC supply increase

How: Broad Statements, Omission Of Specifics

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Q20 Valerie Vaz Lab Walsall and Bloxwich
Foreign Affairs
Context

British citizens Morad Tahbaz and Mehran Raoof remain in Iranian custody.

Question

Will the Minister update the House on cases of British citizens Morad Tahbaz and Mehran Raoof who are still in Evin prison in Iran?

Answer from James Cleverly

The UK Government remains committed to securing full release of British dual nationals in Iran. We will continue to work on this with alacrity.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide specific updates or details about efforts to secure their release

How: Broad Statements, Omission Of Specifics

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Q21 Gregory Campbell DUP East Londonderry
Northern Ireland Foreign Affairs
Context

Northern Ireland businesses are affected by the Northern Ireland Protocol, with trade concerns.

Question

Can the Foreign Secretary give an assurance to businesses in NI that her Bill will solve their east-west trade problems, along with other political issues?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

We are proceeding with the Bill. We consult closely with business on red/green lanes to ensure it works for companies.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not give specific assurances about solving east-west trade problems or other political issues

How: Broad Statements, Omission Of Specifics

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Q22 Rachel Hopkins Lab Luton South and South Bedfordshire
Foreign Affairs
Context

Bangladesh and northern India are experiencing severe floods. Many constituents have family/friends in the Sylhet area.

Question

Bangladesh and northern India face worst floods in 100 years. My constituents worry about family/friends, especially in Sylhet. Can the Minister assure that UK will take action on humanitarian aid, including food/water/sanitation?

Answer from Vicky Ford

I will raise this with Lord Ahmad.

Not addressed: Did not commit to providing specific humanitarian aid actions or assurances

How: Forwarding The Issue, Broad Statements

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Q23 Joanna Cherry SNP
Brexit Foreign Affairs
Context

The UK's threats to withdraw or disengage from ECHR are seen as encouraging non-compliance in Eastern Europe.

Question

When I led the Joint Committee delegation to Strasbourg last week, we were told that UK threats of withdrawal give succour to Eastern European states like Russia. Will the Foreign Secretary tell PM to tone down threats and advise Back Benchers to back off?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I thought she would welcome UK's leadership in kicking Russia out of Council of Europe.

Not addressed: Did not address the concern about threats to leave ECHR or advise PM/backbenchers

How: Changing Subject, Forwarding The Issue

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