House of Commons · Westminster Hall
30 April 2025 · 10 other contributors · 10,264 words
Opened by Tom Morrison Lib Dem Cheadle
Responding minister: Stephen Doughty
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Tom Morrison raised concerns about safety of humanitarian workers: conflict zones in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The House should provide a voice for humanitarian workers who need protection and support, and urge the Government to take action against abuses by forces like the Israeli Defence Forces and ensure consistent leadership on the world stage to uphold international law.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
There are an estimated half a million humanitarian workers worldwide who face significant dangers, with 2024 being the deadliest year on record for them. Last year saw at least 325 aid workers killed, and attacks have occurred in multiple conflict zones such as Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Yemen, Syria, DRC, and Ethiopia. Despite international law protections, these workers are often under threat from violence including shelling, shootings, kidnappings, and sexual abuse.
Emphasised that the abuse of humanitarian workers is not accidental but a result of government licence given to forces such as IDF, urging for Government-to-Government action against these abuses.
Cameron Thomas expresses gratitude to those who put themselves in harm’s way not for financial recognition, but for humanity. He supports the sentiment expressed by his colleague. Recognises tactics like 'double tap' as terrorism. Criticizes government's response to humanitarian outrages in Gaza compared to Ukraine.
As a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Edward Morello highlights the difficulties faced by humanitarian workers who often work for less financial reward. He raises concerns about resources and the reduction in UK's official development assistance. Discussed the convictions and values driving humanitarian aid workers, inquired about eligibility criteria for the humanitarian medal.
Stressed the importance of addressing attacks on humanitarian facilities through prosecutions under international law, highlighting the role of bomb disposal experts in conflict zones.
Asked about the UK's role in air drops during earlier conflicts and its current efforts to ensure aid access into Gaza. Highlighted issues of kidnappings and physical/psychological toll on aid workers, specifically cited cases from Gaza to Lebanon. Asked about the specific situation in Lebanon and the humanitarian notification system.
Commends humanitarian workers for their bravery and dedication, highlighting that 280 were killed in 2024; calls for better protection mechanisms and recognises the impact of aid budget cuts on NGOs. Commends the work of church groups in responding to humanitarian crises, specifically asked about mental health support for aid workers.
Highlighted how foreign aid cuts have been a shameful retreat from Labour’s legacy on foreign aid.
Pressed for accountability of those responsible for attacks on aid workers, including recent incidents in Gaza.
Highlights the deadly year for aid workers, calls for suspension of British arms exports to Israel, and urges reconsideration on aid funding cuts. Agreed with the hon. Member for Dewsbury and Batley that concrete actions are needed.
Acknowledged the importance of aid workers and organisations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross. She also asked about steps being taken to support safety of aid workers in Ukraine, Sudan, and Gaza.
Government Response
Stephen DoughtyThe Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
Acknowledged the escalating threats facing humanitarian workers globally, committed to promoting compliance with international law for their protection. Addressed specific questions regarding mental health support, faith group partnerships in crises, exemptions for female aid workers in Afghanistan, and eligibility criteria for the humanitarian medal. Responded to concerns about the safety of humanitarian workers by detailing diplomatic efforts such as meetings with foreign ministers and emergency UN Security Council sessions. Mentioned the suspension of certain arms export licences to Israel due to risks of violations of international law in Gaza. Announced a £101 million support package for the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including humanitarian relief and economic development.