← Back to Westminster Hall Debates

Afghanistan: UK Government Policy — [Dr Rupa Huq in the Chair]

10 January 2024

Lead MP

Tobias Ellwood
Bournemouth East
Con

Responding Minister

Andrew Mitchell

Tags

Foreign Affairs
Word Count: 13458
Other Contributors: 7

At a Glance

Tobias Ellwood raised concerns about afghanistan: uk government policy — [dr rupa huq in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

Engage with the Taliban-led government more proactively to influence improvements in human rights conditions and stability. Reopen the UK embassy in Afghanistan to better understand the situation on the ground.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Lead Contributor

Bournemouth East
Opened the debate
The war in Afghanistan was costly and complex, with the country now facing economic collapse, human rights violations, and a resurgence of terrorism. The population feels abandoned by the international community, despite needing humanitarian aid and support to prevent radicalisation among young people. The economy is estimated to have about two years before it collapses, affecting 28 million people who need humanitarian aid.

Government Response

Andrew Mitchell
Government Response
The Government remains committed to a leading role in the humanitarian response for Afghanistan, with £600 million in aid disbursed since 2021. The UK aims to reach at least 50% of people with women and girls being the focus, supporting 125,000 Afghan children's access to education last year. Since August 2021, efforts have been made to re-establish a diplomatic presence in Kabul when security allows but recognition of the Taliban is not imminent due to human rights concerns.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.