Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Gaza: UK Aid

Monday 8 January 2024 · 7 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 7 Not answered 0

Key points

  • UK aid to Gaza involves delivery of 150 tonnes of humanitarian aid by RFA Lyme Bay and RAF aircraft to Egypt.
  • FCDO works with UN, Israel, and Egypt to address distribution challenges and movement issues into Gaza.
  • MOD supports diplomatic efforts for cessation of hostilities to enhance humanitarian aid delivery.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Andrew Gwynne Ind Gorton and Denton
Foreign Affairs
Context

The UK's maritime delivery of humanitarian aid to Egypt at the start of the year has not yet resolved issues with moving aid into Gaza.

Question

What steps are being taken to support the delivery of UK aid to Gaza, given that aid is still facing challenges in reaching those who need it?

Answer from James Heappey

In support of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), RFA Lyme Bay and RAF aircraft have delivered 150 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Egypt. Distribution challenges persist due to movement issues into Gaza. FCDO is working with UN, Israel, and Egypt to address these.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The questioner specifically asked about steps taken to ensure efficient and safe delivery, but the answer focused on what has been done so far without providing concrete commitments for future action.

How: Working With Partners

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Q2 Beth Winter
Foreign Affairs
Context

A UN relief convoy was hit by Israeli gunfire despite its identifiable markings, raising questions about the tracking of alleged breaches or violations in Gaza.

Question

Given Israel's targeting of aid convoys, does the Ministry of Defence maintain a tracker database to document such breaches and violations as it has for Yemen?

Answer from James Heappey

I will write to the hon. Lady about whether there is a tracker database for documenting such breaches and violations in Gaza.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific ask was not directly answered, only promised follow-up in writing.

How: Will Write

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Q3 Kerry McCarthy Lab Bristol East
Defence Foreign Affairs Parliamentary Procedure
Context

RFA Lyme Bay has delivered aid to Egypt but aid is still not reaching those in need due to ongoing conflict.

Question

Given the situation, what role is the MOD playing to secure another cessation in hostilities to ensure humanitarian aid can be more effectively delivered?

Answer from James Heappey

The MOD supports the Government's diplomatic efforts but stresses that negotiations are led by FCDO. An urgent question is expected to address such issues shortly.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide specific details on MOD role in securing a cessation of hostilities, only referred to ongoing support and diplomatic processes.

How: Support For Wider Effort, Diplomatic Lead

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Q4 Andrew Gwynne Ind Gorton and Denton
Ukraine Defence Foreign Affairs
Context

Despite the PM's statement, the volume of aid reaching Gaza remains limited due to crossing restrictions.

Question

Why is there not a greater number of aid deliveries despite the commitment by the Prime Minister? What actions are being taken to open crossings for increased delivery?

Answer from James Heappey

The MOD supports FCDO efforts, noting military capacity is available but crossing availability limits aid volumes. The Kerem Shalom crossing has been opened through diplomatic engagement.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide specific commitments or actions beyond supporting existing efforts and opening a crossing.

How: Fcdo Lead, Diplomatic Success

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Q5 Flick Drummond Con
NHS Foreign Affairs
Context

France and Jordan have successfully delivered medical aid by air, prompting consideration of alternative UK methods.

Question

Has the Minister considered air-dropping food and medical supplies as an alternative given successful deliveries via air by France and Jordan?

Answer from James Heappey

Air dropping is imprecise; maritime routes are preferred. FCDO leads on aid delivery efforts.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not address whether air-dropping was being considered or planned, only stated preference for other methods.

How: Air-Dropping Is Imprecise, Maritime Routes Preferred

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Q6 Philip Hollobone Con
Defence Foreign Affairs
Context

Suggestions are being made for more direct and efficient methods of delivering humanitarian aid, including from ship directly to shore.

Question

Is a feasibility study underway to explore the possibility of direct aid delivery into Gaza via ships to shore if security allows?

Answer from James Heappey

The Defence Secretary is working internationally, including with Cypriot Ministry of Defence, on ideas for ship-to-shore deliveries but these need agreement from all parties.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not confirm if a feasibility study was underway or provide specific commitments beyond diplomatic efforts.

How: Ideas Being Explored, Agreement Required

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Q7 Mark Logan
Defence Foreign Affairs
Context

Concerns about maritime safety and humanitarian support for Gaza have been raised, particularly in relation to potential use of Red sea vessels.

Question

What assurances can be provided regarding the security of ships delivering aid into Gaza through the Red Sea?

Answer from James Heappey

Royal Navy warships are part of a taskforce protecting Red sea shipping lanes, which impacts aid delivery security.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide specific assurances or commitments on maritime safety for aid delivery from the Red Sea.

How: Impact On Shipping

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