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

Ms Alison Thewliss addressed the concerns raised by her constituents about previous comments made and the Home Office's response to Afghan refugees. She highlighted issues with delays in family reunion visas, failure of ARAP and ACRS schemes, and urged for more pressure on these programmes. Ms Thewliss also mentioned that the UK has taken only 0.2% of Afghan refugees, urging further action for those left behind who worked for British forces or associated entities.

The MP highlighted the UK's historical responsibility towards Afghanistan following its near collapse after international financial support withdrawal. He raised concerns about providing aid without legitimising a brutal Taliban regime and stressed the importance of protecting Afghans who fled to neighbouring countries like Pakistan, especially those trained by British forces.

Ms Catherine West paid tribute to the British servicemen and women who died in Afghanistan, highlighting the legacy left behind despite the Taliban's return. She questioned the conditions for re-engaging with Afghanistan, including freedom of religion or belief and human rights safeguarding. Ms West also urged the Minister to outline further humanitarian response from the UK and address the issue of at-risk Afghans facing deportation from Pakistan.

Called the Taliban an 'evil organisation' and emphasised the need for conditional aid based on human rights. He highlighted the plight of a constituent who worked with British forces in Afghanistan but is unable to secure a visa, citing his family's safety threats.

Mr Lewis discussed the impracticality of rapid societal transformation in Afghanistan, arguing that containment rather than direct intervention is a more realistic approach. He expressed concern over Pakistan's potential to shift towards radical elements and the security implications for nuclear weapons. Mr Lewis also highlighted the need to protect Afghan groups who collaborated with NATO efforts.

He questioned the right hon. Member about the potential terrorist threat from Afghanistan, referencing the previous UK Prime Minister's AfPak strategy that addressed fears of Islamist intent combined with weapons of mass destruction capabilities in Pakistan. Asked whether Jim Shannon agreed with Mr Ellwood on the importance of political curiosity and saying unconventional things.

I am concerned about the lack of clarity in government policy regarding Afghanistan and urge for a more transparent approach to decision-making. Ms Chamberlain criticised the lack of improvement in women's rights in Afghanistan despite international discussions and meetings. She highlighted that girls are banned from education after primary school, women face restrictions on employment, and there is an increase in arrests including politically motivated ones. She urged the Government to set out a plan for putting pressure on the Taliban to improve conditions. Asked if the Minister would give way.