Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

We pursue our national interests and project the UK as a force for good in the world. We promote the interests of British citizens, safeguard the UK’s security, defend our values, reduce poverty and tackle global challenges with our international partners.



Secretary of State

 Portrait

Yvette Cooper
Foreign Secretary

Shadow Ministers / Spokeperson
Liberal Democrat
Lord Purvis of Tweed (LD - Life peer)
Liberal Democrat Lords Spokesperson (Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs)
Calum Miller (LD - Bicester and Woodstock)
Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Foreign Affairs)

Conservative
Priti Patel (Con - Witham)
Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs

Green Party
Ellie Chowns (Green - North Herefordshire)
Green Spokesperson (Foreign Affairs)
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
Lord Callanan (Con - Life peer)
Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Wendy Morton (Con - Aldridge-Brownhills)
Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
Andrew Rosindell (Con - Romford)
Shadow Parliamentary Under Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs)
Alec Shelbrooke (Con - Wetherby and Easingwold)
Shadow Parliamentary Under Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs)
Ministers of State
Stephen Doughty (LAB - Cardiff South and Penarth)
Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Parliamentary Under-Secretaries of State
Lord Collins of Highbury (Lab - Life peer)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Hamish Falconer (Lab - Lincoln)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Seema Malhotra (LAB - Feltham and Heston)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Chris Elmore (Lab - Bridgend)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
There are no upcoming events identified
Debates
Monday 20th October 2025
Select Committee Inquiry
Thursday 27th March 2025
The UK Government’s China Audit

Although China is the UK’s fifth largest trading partner, the UK Government has, in recent years, described China as an …

Written Answers
Tuesday 21st October 2025
Methanol: Poisoning
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with his …
Secondary Legislation
Tuesday 30th September 2025
Iran (Sanctions) (Nuclear) (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations 2025
These Regulations amend the Iran (Sanctions) (Nuclear) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (“the 2019 Regulations”) to reflect the United Nations (“UN”) …
Bills
Wednesday 10th September 2025
Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Bill 2024-26
A Bill to make provision for and in connection with the implementation by the United Kingdom of the Agreement under …

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Commons Appearances

Oral Answers to Questions is a regularly scheduled appearance where the Secretary of State and junior minister will answer at the Dispatch Box questions from backbench MPs

Other Commons Chamber appearances can be:
  • Urgent Questions where the Speaker has selected a question to which a Minister must reply that day
  • Adjornment Debates a 30 minute debate attended by a Minister that concludes the day in Parliament.
  • Oral Statements informing the Commons of a significant development, where backbench MP's can then question the Minister making the statement.

Westminster Hall debates are performed in response to backbench MPs or e-petitions asking for a Minister to address a detailed issue

Written Statements are made when a current event is not sufficiently significant to require an Oral Statement, but the House is required to be informed.

Most Recent Commons Appearances by Category
Sep. 02
Oral Questions
Oct. 14
Written Statements
Oct. 14
Westminster Hall
Sep. 04
Adjournment Debate
View All Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Commons Contibutions

Bills currently before Parliament

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office does not have Bills currently before Parliament


Acts of Parliament created in the 2024 Parliament

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has not passed any Acts during the 2024 Parliament

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office - Secondary Legislation

These Regulations amend the Iran (Sanctions) (Nuclear) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (“the 2019 Regulations”) to reflect the United Nations (“UN”) obligations imposed in relation to Iran by virtue of paragraph 12 of UN Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015).
This Order approves the making of payments on behalf of the Government of the United Kingdom to the International Development Association (the “Association”) of sums not exceeding £1,980 million as a contribution to the Twenty-First Replenishment of the Association. The payments approved by this Order will be made pursuant to Resolution No. 255 adopted by the Board of Governors of the Association on 15th April 2025. The Order also provides for the redemption of non-interest-bearing and non-negotiable notes issued by the Secretary of State pursuant to arrangements between the Government and the Association.
View All Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Secondary Legislation

Petitions

e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.

If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.

If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has not participated in any petition debates
View All Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Petitions

Departmental Select Committee

Foreign Affairs Committee

Commons Select Committees are a formally established cross-party group of backbench MPs tasked with holding a Government department to account.

At any time there will be number of ongoing investigations into the work of the Department, or issues which fall within the oversight of the Department. Witnesses can be summoned from within the Government and outside to assist in these inquiries.

Select Committee findings are reported to the Commons, printed, and published on the Parliament website. The government then usually has 60 days to reply to the committee's recommendations.


11 Members of the Foreign Affairs Committee
Emily Thornberry Portrait
Emily Thornberry (Labour - Islington South and Finsbury)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 11th September 2024
John Whittingdale Portrait
John Whittingdale (Conservative - Maldon)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Abtisam Mohamed Portrait
Abtisam Mohamed (Labour - Sheffield Central)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Blair McDougall Portrait
Blair McDougall (Labour - East Renfrewshire)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Uma Kumaran Portrait
Uma Kumaran (Labour - Stratford and Bow)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Dan Carden Portrait
Dan Carden (Labour - Liverpool Walton)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Aphra Brandreth Portrait
Aphra Brandreth (Conservative - Chester South and Eddisbury)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Edward Morello Portrait
Edward Morello (Liberal Democrat - West Dorset)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Richard Foord Portrait
Richard Foord (Liberal Democrat - Honiton and Sidmouth)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Phil Brickell Portrait
Phil Brickell (Labour - Bolton West)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 16th December 2024
Alex Ballinger Portrait
Alex Ballinger (Labour - Halesowen)
Foreign Affairs Committee Member since 16th December 2024
Foreign Affairs Committee: Upcoming Events
Foreign Affairs Committee - Oral evidence
The work of the British Council
28 Oct 2025, 9:30 a.m.
At 10:00am: Oral evidence
Scott McDonald - Chief Executive at British Council
Kate Ewart-Biggs OBE - Deputy Chief Executive at British Council

View calendar - Save to Calendar
Foreign Affairs Committee: Previous Inquiries
Environmental diplomacy The Myanmar crisis Coronavirus: FCDO response The UK and Iran The FCDO and the Integrated Review The FCO's human rights work in 2013 Gibraltar The UK's relations with Hong Kong: 30 years after the Joint Declaration FCO performance and finances 2013-14 Hong Kong Russia and Ukraine Overseas Territories FCO consular services UK policy towards Iran UK Government policy on the Kurdistan Region of Iraq The future of the BBC World Service Developments in Libya The fight against ISIL: the UK's role inquiry FCO budget and capacity inquiry Libya: Examination of intervention and collapse and the UK's future policy options inquiry Costs and benefits of EU membership for the UK's role in the world inquiry Foreign policy developments Progress of the Iraq Inquiry British Foreign policy and the 'Arab Spring': follow-up Appointment of Lord Hill of Oareford to the European Commission Hong Kong: China's ban on the Committee's visit Government foreign policy towards the United States Foreign and Commonwealth Office performance and finances 2012-13 Departmental Annual Report 2010-11 FCO Public Diplomacy: The Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012 FCO's Human Rights Work 2010-11 Overseas Territories British foreign policy and the 'Arab Spring' FCO's human rights work in 2011 The future of the European Union: UK Government policy The role and future of the Commonwealth UK's relations with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain The UK's response to extremism and political instability in North and West Africa The UK’s influence in the UN inquiry The UK’s response to hurricanes in its Overseas Territories inquiry Global Britain inquiry The Commonwealth Summit inquiry Responsibility to protect and humanitarian intervention inquiry Russian corruption and the UK inquiry Session with Minister of State for Africa inquiry The Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s Human Rights Work inquiry The Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s preparations for the World Cup inquiry The Western Balkans inquiry The future of the UK Overseas Territories inquiry Global Britain and India inquiry Global Britain: FCO skills inquiry The work of the Minister of State for the Middle East Global Britain and South America inquiry Global Britain: The future of UK sanctions policy inquiry FCO budget and capacity, and annual report 2017-18 inquiry Finding a diplomatic route: European responses to irregular migration inquiry The World Food Programme inquiry The Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Global media freedom inquiry Autocracies and UK Foreign Policy inquiry FCO secure communications and handling of classified information inquiry The future of Britain’s diplomatic relationship with Europe - follow up inquiry Beyond Aid: The UK’s Strategic Engagement in Africa inquiry Human rights: Freedom of religion and belief, and human rights defenders inquiry The Caucasus inquiry The UK and Iran’s regional role inquiry Economic foreign policy inquiry The UK’s policy towards the Middle East Peace Process inquiry UK relations with China inquiry The FCO policy on arms exports inquiry Evidence from HE Lord Llewellyn of Steep on his appointment as HM Ambassador to Paris inquiry Resignation of Lord Hill of Oareford from the European Commission inquiry FCO budget and capacity, and Annual Report 2015-16 inquiry Violence in Rakhine State inquiry China and the international rules-based system inquiry FCO budget and capacity, and annual report 2016-17 Oral evidence from the Foreign Secretary Kurdish aspirations and the interests of the UK inquiry The future of Britain’s diplomatic relationship with Europe inquiry Political Islam inquiry UK's relations with Russia inquiry Human rights inquiry The future operations of BBC monitoring inquiry Human Rights: Annual review of the work of the FCO inquiry UK's relations with Turkey inquiry Implications of leaving the EU for the UK's role in the world inquiry The UK’s role in strengthening multilateral organisations FCO-DFID merger Xinjiang detention camps Global health security Update to the UK's Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy Critical minerals Western Balkans The UK’s engagement in Central Asia The UK’s international counter-terrorism policy The UK’s engagement with the Middle East and North Africa International relations within the multilateral system The BBC World Service: Is Britain Losing its Soft Power? Work of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict The work of the British Council Soft power: a strategy for UK success? Disinformation diplomacy: How malign actors are seeking to undermine democracy The UK’s sanctions strategy The UK-EU reset: rebuilding a strategic partnership in uncertain times The UK at the United Nations Security Council The UK Government’s China Audit Beyond Aid: The UK’s Strategic Engagement in Africa Autocracies and UK Foreign Policy The future of Britain’s diplomatic relationship with Europe- follow up inquiry China and the international rules-based system Economic foreign policy Finding a diplomatic route: European responses to irregular migration FCO budget and capacity, and annual report 2017-18 The Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Global media freedom FCO secure communications and handling of classified information Human rights: Freedom of religion and belief, and human rights defenders Global Britain and South America Global Britain: The future of UK sanctions policy The work of the Minister of State for the Middle East Global Britain and India The future of the UK Overseas Territories Oral evidence from the Foreign Secretary The UK’s influence in the UN Session with Minister of State for Africa Responsibility to protect and humanitarian intervention The Caucasus The UK and Iran’s regional role The World Food Programme

50 most recent Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department

15th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she plans to take to help ensure that there is an effective replenishment conference for the Global Fund to fight HIVAids, TB and Malaria.

The UK is proud to be co-hosting the Global Fund's Eighth Replenishment with South Africa and looks forward to working with an expanded range of partners to help end AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria for good.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is working with South Africa and the Global Fund on a range of international engagements and events to help generate international support for the Replenishment. For example, Heads of Mission have recently hosted events in support of the Global Fund at our High Commission in Canberra, our Embassy in Addis Ababa and our High Commission in Pretoria, in addition to bilateral discussions in other key countries.

Chris Elmore
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
15th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she has taken to limit the flow of (a) weapons, (b) war funds and (c) other materials used to conduct warfare into Sudan.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 7 October 2025 to Question 75005.

Chris Elmore
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
15th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of trends in the level of involvement of (a) the Africa Corps and (b) other parts of the Russian military in the conflict in Sudan.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 7 October 2025 to Question 75005.

Chris Elmore
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
15th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she has taken with international partners to (a) provide effective humanitarian aid to Sudan and (b) help resolve the conflict in Sudan.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 7 October 2025 to Question 75005.

Chris Elmore
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking to ensure that overseas farmers and workers involved in UK agricultural supply chains are receiving living incomes.

The UK Government is committed to advancing free and fair trade around the world that is inclusive, sustainable and reduces poverty. To do this, the UK supports a range of initiatives to drive inclusive growth and create more and better jobs at scale, including in agricultural supply chains.

Such initiatives include the recently concluded Work and Opportunities for Women (WOW) programme, which aimed to advance women's economic empowerment in global supply chains. In Kenya, WOW supported over 300,000 tea farmers, over 80% of whom reported improved productivity and income through climate-resilient practices and diversified livelihoods.

Chris Elmore
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
12th Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of their sanctions policy in relation to Israel, following that country’s attack on Qatar on 9 September.

On 11 September, the UK's Permanent Representative to the UN, Dame Barbara Woodward, condemned Israel's strikes on Doha as a "flagrant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Qatar," warning of the risk of further escalation. The Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary have both expressed grave concern over the incident, reaffirming UK solidarity with Qatar and calling for de-escalation. Since taking office, this Government has announced three packages of sanctions in relation to Israel/Palestine. In June we imposed sanctions on Israeli Cabinet Ministers Smotrich and Ben Gvir, in their personal capacity for inciting violence towards Palestinians, while the previous rounds targeted individuals, illegal settler outposts and organisations perpetrating and supporting violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
18th Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel about their refusal to allow two British MPs to enter that country.

We are deeply concerned by the latest incident of two British MPs being denied entry to the State of Palestine by Israel. The Minister for the Middle East and officials were in contact with the MPs affected throughout. The Government has been clear with the Israeli authorities that this is no way to treat British parliamentarians.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
6th Oct 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they plan to take to persuade the government of Israel (1) to allow humanitarian access to Gaza, (2) to ensure the protection of civilian populations and humanitarian workers, and (3) to end settler violence in the West Bank.

The UK has repeatedly made representations to the Israeli government to ensure that humanitarian workers are protected, medical and aid workers can do their jobs safely and to clamp down on settler violence and expansion. Working with our Australian counterparts, we developed the political Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel which launched at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 21 and secured endorsement from 105 states. On 3 October, the Foreign Secretary spoke to Foreign Minister Sa'ar and pressed him on the humanitarian situation in Gaza, among other matters. We will continue our engagement and keep these issues under review.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
6th Oct 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government, following the finding by the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory that the government of Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, what steps they intend to take to ensure that potential perpetrators are held to account.

I refer the Noble Baroness to my answer of 7 October to question HL10739.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
6th Oct 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Collins of Highbury on 25 July (HL9515), what further assessment they have made of reported deaths of Palestinians trying to access distribution points for humanitarian aid.

We were horrified by the repeated reports of civilians being killed or injured while seeking humanitarian aid near distribution points in Gaza, and we are consistently reminding our Israeli counterparts that international law requires the protection of healthcare workers, journalists and civilians. We continue to work with partners, including the UN, United States and Israel, to ensure that civilians across Gaza are protected and the safe delivery of humanitarian aid is facilitated, most recently in the Foreign Secretary's discussions at the UN General Assembly meetings in New York and in a call with Israeli Foreign Minister Sa'ar on 3 October.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
6th Oct 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice published on 24 July 2024, what steps, if any, they are taking to prevent trade or investment relations that "assist in the maintenance of the illegal situation created by Israel in Palestine".

There is already guidance on gov.uk setting out the clear risks related to economic and financial activities in the settlements, and we do not encourage or offer support to such activity. Goods originating from illegal Israeli settlements are not entitled to tariff and trade preferences under either the existing agreement between the UK and Israel or in our agreement with the Palestinian Authority.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
15th Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel about allowing unfettered access to Gaza to independent observers and international journalists.

Journalists and media workers play an important role in sharing the devastating reality of war with the global public and the Government opposes all attempts to restrict press freedom and block entry to journalists during conflicts. On 21 August, the UK joined a Media Freedom Coalition statement urging Israel to allow immediate media access to independent foreign media and afford protection for journalists working in Gaza.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
15th Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what are the main reasons provided to them by the government of Israel for the continued ban on international observers and international journalists from entering Gaza.

Journalists and media workers play an important role in sharing the devastating reality of war with the global public and the Government opposes all attempts to restrict press freedom and block entry to journalists during conflicts. On 21 August, the UK joined a Media Freedom Coalition statement urging Israel to allow immediate media access to independent foreign media and afford protection for journalists working in Gaza.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
15th Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact that restricted access to Gaza by independent observers and international journalists has on transparency, accountability and the global understanding of the situation in Gaza.

Journalists and media workers play an important role in sharing the devastating reality of war with the global public and the Government opposes all attempts to restrict press freedom and block entry to journalists during conflicts. On 21 August, the UK joined a Media Freedom Coalition statement urging Israel to allow immediate media access to independent foreign media and afford protection for journalists working in Gaza.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
15th Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of world media access to the West Bank.

Journalists and media workers play an important role in sharing the devastating reality of war with the global public and the Government opposes all attempts to restrict press freedom and block entry to journalists during conflicts. On 21 August, the UK joined a Media Freedom Coalition statement urging Israel to allow immediate media access to independent foreign media and afford protection for journalists working in Gaza.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
13th Oct 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the recent comments by Baroness Manningham-Buller, former Director General of MI5, that the United Kingdom may already be at war with Russia.

The actions of the Russian State pose an acute and direct threat to the interests and national security of the UK and our allies. Russia continues to intensify its aggressive hybrid campaign, including sabotage, violence and cyber-attacks. We are working in partnership with our allies to deter and defend against the full spectrum of threats emanating from Russia.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
13th Oct 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to address the persecution of Christians in Nigeria by radical religious groups as a priority country under their freedom of religion and belief strategy; and what steps they are taking to address other root causes of intercommunal violence.

I refer the Noble Lord to the answer provided on 23 September to Question HL10250.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
13th Oct 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the government of Turkmenistan concerning the targeting of Christian communities including (1) the monitoring of Christian leaders and (2) the harassment of Christian converts; and what steps they are taking to ensure the promotion of religious freedom in the country.

The UK is committed to championing Freedom of Religion or Belief. We highlight this issue at the UN, via the G7 and as a member of the Article 18 Alliance. Our Embassy in Ashgabat has contact with representatives of different faith groups, as well as visiting UK faith representatives, to discuss issues they face in practicing their religion in Turkmenistan. In Turkmenistan's most recent UN Universal Periodic Review in 2023, the UK raised concerns about freedom of association. We continue to seek opportunities to raise concerns at the UN and other international fora, where appropriate.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
2nd Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they will make recognition of a Palestinian state contingent on (1) Hamas’ release of hostages, and (2) Hamas’ disarmament.

In her statements confirming the UK's decision to recognise the State of Palestine, the Foreign Secretary has made clear that there can and will be no role for Hamas terrorists in the future governance of Gaza. She has also welcomed the unanimous declaration by the Arab League calling for Hamas to release all hostages, lay down its arms and relinquish all power in Gaza. Those goals will remain a priority for the UK Government as we work with international partners to progress efforts to secure a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, based on the two states of Israel and Palestine living securely side by side.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
8th Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the compatibility of the proposed recognition of a Palestinian State with the Montevideo Convention.

Recognition of Palestinian statehood is a political decision that is compliant with international law and has already been taken by a significant majority of UN member states. Taking into consideration the criteria for statehood set out in the Montevideo Convention and other relevant factors, we considered that there was a proper basis for the recognition of the Palestinian State, which was announced on 21 September.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
13th Oct 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they plan to review the 1951 Refugee Convention; and if so, which aspects of that Convention they will review.

I refer the Noble Lord to the answer of 7 October 2025 to question HL9967.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
9th Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports that the Israeli Ministry of Diaspora Affairs funded an online disinformation campaign targeting US and Canadian audiences with Islamophobic content.

No assessment of those reports have been made, but we keep all such matters under review.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
9th Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel over the past four weeks to press them on the need to reconsider the effect of their policies on the health, welfare and survival of the residents of Gaza.

We have made repeated representations to the Government of Israel over the past month on humanitarian access, protection of healthcare, and protection of civilians, including in the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary's meetings on 10th September with President Herzog.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if she will make an assessment of the potential implications for her policies of the report for the Inter-Parliamentary Union entitled PALESTINE: the trial of Mr. Marwan Barghouti, published on 3 October 2003.

The UK continues to reiterate calls for Israel to allow the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) unfettered and immediate access to detention facilities and continue to raise this with the Israeli government as a priority. The UK reaffirms our support for the ICRC as the only humanitarian actor with the experience, capability, independence and mandate to carry out their important responsibilities. We believe it is critical that the ICRC is given regular access to detainees to deliver on their independent visiting role, as enshrined within the 1949 Geneva Conventions.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she plans to (a) hold discussions with her Israeli counterpart on and (b) take steps to help (i) support the release of Marwan Barghouti and (ii) end arbitrary detention of Palestinian political prisoners.

The UK continues to reiterate calls for Israel to allow the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) unfettered and immediate access to detention facilities and continue to raise this with the Israeli government as a priority. The UK reaffirms our support for the ICRC as the only humanitarian actor with the experience, capability, independence and mandate to carry out their important responsibilities. We believe it is critical that the ICRC is given regular access to detainees to deliver on their independent visiting role, as enshrined within the 1949 Geneva Conventions.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the oral contribution of the former Secretary of State for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on 1 September 2025, Official Report, column 77, whether the assessment of the risk of breaches of international humanitarian law included consideration of the incarceration of Marwan Barghouti.

The UK continues to reiterate calls for Israel to allow the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) unfettered and immediate access to detention facilities and continue to raise this with the Israeli government as a priority. The UK reaffirms our support for the ICRC as the only humanitarian actor with the experience, capability, independence and mandate to carry out their important responsibilities. We believe it is critical that the ICRC is given regular access to detainees to deliver on their independent visiting role, as enshrined within the 1949 Geneva Conventions.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the Answer of 18 November 2024 to Question HL2234 on Israel: Palestinians UIN, whether the International Committee of the Red Cross is given regular access to Marwan Barghouti.

The UK continues to reiterate calls for Israel to allow the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) unfettered and immediate access to detention facilities and continue to raise this with the Israeli government as a priority. The UK reaffirms our support for the ICRC as the only humanitarian actor with the experience, capability, independence and mandate to carry out their important responsibilities. We believe it is critical that the ICRC is given regular access to detainees to deliver on their independent visiting role, as enshrined within the 1949 Geneva Conventions.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with her Israeli counterparts on opening secure humanitarian corridors across Gaza.

I refer the hon. Member to the answer of 15 September to Question 77707.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent representations she has made to her Israeli counterpart on (a) humanitarian access being limited to (i) Kerem Shalom and (ii) Kissufim and (b) the closure of Zikim.

I refer the hon. Member to the answer of 15 September to Question 77707.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with her US counterpart on (a) lifting restrictions on crossings and (b) restoring UN-led, coordinated humanitarian operations in Gaza.

I refer the hon. Member to the answer of 15 September to Question 77707.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he has taken to raise awareness of the potential dangers of methanol poisoning among UK nationals travelling overseas.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) travel advice remains under regular review to ensure it reflects our latest assessment of risks to British nationals. We include information about the risks from methanol poisoning or counterfeit alcohol in our Travel Advice pages for a range of countries, including Brazil, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Fiji, Indonesia, Laos, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam.

Since November 2024 the FCDO has also proactively communicated the risks of methanol poisoning to British travellers through Travel Aware, the FCDO's public-facing campaign that aims to arm travelling British nationals with knowledge to help them avoid incidents overseas. This includes:

  • a dedicated drink spiking and methanol poisoning page on the Travel Aware website: https//travelaware.campaign.gov.uk/spiking-and-methanol-poisoning;
  • regular Travel Aware social media posts, directing audiences to the webpage;
  • work with youth-focussed content creators to raise awareness; and
  • work with Travel Aware industry partners, including ABTA, who have shared information with relevant audiences.

In addition, the FCDO works closely with international partners, such as the Australian Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade, to share best practice about how to communicate the risks of methanol poisoning to British nationals.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with his international counterparts on raising awareness of the potential dangers of methanol poisoning.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) travel advice remains under regular review to ensure it reflects our latest assessment of risks to British nationals. We include information about the risks from methanol poisoning or counterfeit alcohol in our Travel Advice pages for a range of countries, including Brazil, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Fiji, Indonesia, Laos, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam.

Since November 2024 the FCDO has also proactively communicated the risks of methanol poisoning to British travellers through Travel Aware, the FCDO's public-facing campaign that aims to arm travelling British nationals with knowledge to help them avoid incidents overseas. This includes:

  • a dedicated drink spiking and methanol poisoning page on the Travel Aware website: https//travelaware.campaign.gov.uk/spiking-and-methanol-poisoning;
  • regular Travel Aware social media posts, directing audiences to the webpage;
  • work with youth-focussed content creators to raise awareness; and
  • work with Travel Aware industry partners, including ABTA, who have shared information with relevant audiences.

In addition, the FCDO works closely with international partners, such as the Australian Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade, to share best practice about how to communicate the risks of methanol poisoning to British nationals.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
16th Sep 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she has made an estimate of the number of Palestinian institutions in (a) the West Bank and (b) East Jerusalem that are no longer able to provide services due to (i) Israeli demolitions, (ii) closures and (iii) funding restrictions.

The Government does not hold the requested estimates, but we work closely with civil society, international organisations, and the Palestinian Authority to assess the situation facing Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
2nd Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government, whether their proposed recognition of a Palestinian state will apply if Gaza remains under the control of Hamas.

In her statements confirming the UK's decision to recognise the State of Palestine, the Foreign Secretary has made clear that there can and will be no role for Hamas terrorists in the future governance of Gaza. She has also welcomed the unanimous declaration by the Arab League calling for Hamas to release all hostages, lay down its arms and relinquish all power in Gaza. Those goals will remain a priority for the UK Government as we work with international partners to progress efforts to secure a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, based on the two states of Israel and Palestine living securely side by side.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington
Minister of State (Development)
13th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, when her Department plans to respond to the correspondence from the hon. Member for Newton Abbot of 9 September 2025 with case reference MW10038.

I apologise for the delay in responding to the hon. Member's correspondence. The Minister for International Development issued a response to the hon. Member on 16 October.

Seema Malhotra
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to support the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan.

The Government condemns the Taliban's appalling repression of Afghan women and girls. Officials regularly engage with the Taliban on UK Government priorities, including human rights. The Government is working with international partners to maintain collective pressure on the Taliban to reverse their inhuman restrictions.

The UK strongly opposes the death penalty in all countries as a matter of principle, and in all circumstances, including through UN and Human Rights Council resolutions.

In October, the UK Special Envoy for Women and Girls and the UK Special Envoy to Afghanistan met Afghan women leaders. Upholding the human rights of all Afghans is not only a moral imperative, but essential for building a stable, inclusive, and prosperous country.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions she has had with her international partners on taking steps to help (a) prevent the use of stoning as a punishment for adultery and (b) protect women’s rights in Afghanistan.

The Government condemns the Taliban's appalling repression of Afghan women and girls. Officials regularly engage with the Taliban on UK Government priorities, including human rights. The Government is working with international partners to maintain collective pressure on the Taliban to reverse their inhuman restrictions.

The UK strongly opposes the death penalty in all countries as a matter of principle, and in all circumstances, including through UN and Human Rights Council resolutions.

In October, the UK Special Envoy for Women and Girls and the UK Special Envoy to Afghanistan met Afghan women leaders. Upholding the human rights of all Afghans is not only a moral imperative, but essential for building a stable, inclusive, and prosperous country.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the effectiveness of diplomatic engagement with the Taliban on (a) the rights of women and girls and (b) other human rights issues.

The Government condemns the Taliban's appalling repression of Afghan women and girls. Officials regularly engage with the Taliban on UK Government priorities, including human rights. The Government is working with international partners to maintain collective pressure on the Taliban to reverse their inhuman restrictions.

The UK strongly opposes the death penalty in all countries as a matter of principle, and in all circumstances, including through UN and Human Rights Council resolutions.

In October, the UK Special Envoy for Women and Girls and the UK Special Envoy to Afghanistan met Afghan women leaders. Upholding the human rights of all Afghans is not only a moral imperative, but essential for building a stable, inclusive, and prosperous country.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what diplomatic steps she is taking with international partners to help ensure access to (a) the internet and (b) telecommunications by people in Afghanistan.

The Taliban's decision to shut down internet services from 29 September to 1 October was deeply concerning. It risked crippling Afghanistan's economy, causing significant issues with the delivery of vital UK aid, and cutting off vulnerable communities.

The UK Government is committed to using its prominent position in multilateral forums to hold the Taliban to account for their repressive policies. Last month, the UK hosted a meeting of G7+ Special Representatives for Afghanistan: this provided an important opportunity for the UK to show international leadership, highlight publicly our deep concern about the Taliban's continued denial of the Afghan people's most basic human rights and call for the full restoration of internet access for all Afghans.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
13th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions she has had with her Pakistani counterpart on reports of (a) degrading treatment of and (b) discrimination against (i) Christian and (ii) Hindu prisoners in that country; and what diplomatic steps she taking to help ensure the protection of religious minority prisoners in that country.

The UK Government is concerned by reports of degrading treatment and discrimination against Christian and Hindu prisoners in Pakistan. Promoting the rights of religious minorities is a core part of our diplomatic engagement and we continue to advocate for their rights with senior Pakistani officials, including in meetings between myself and Pakistan's Human Rights and Interior Ministers earlier this year.

Our High Commission in Islamabad also engages regularly with civil society and human rights defenders to monitor prison conditions and advocate for reforms. We will continue to urge the Government of Pakistan to uphold its international obligations and ensure the safety and dignity of all prisoners, regardless of faith.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
13th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if she will make an assessment of the potential implications for her policies of the joint statement in April 2025 by UN Special Rapporteurs and Special Mechanisms on discrimination faced by the Baha’i community in Egypt; and if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of that statement on her Department's engagement with Egypt on human rights.

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 9 September to Question 75629.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations she has made to the authorities in the Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq on the cases of (a) Sherwan Sherwani and (b) Omed Baroshki.

I refer the hon Member to the answer provided on 17 September to Question 71439.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the 21% underfunding of the Yemen Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2025 led by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs on the humanitarian situation in Yemen.

Yemen remains one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, with 19.5 million people in need of humanitarian assistance. At the UN Security Council Monthly Briefing on Yemen, the UK continues to call for quick and collaborative action from the international community to respond to the rapidly deteriorating levels of food security and ensure the most vulnerable Yemenis are receiving the support they need.

The UK is currently the largest donor to the Yemen Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, committing £139 million in humanitarian aid in 2024 and maintaining our commitment this financial year. Since 2015, the UK has committed over £1 billion in aid to Yemen to alleviate suffering and support the most vulnerable. The UK focuses our programming on integrating health, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and food security responses in areas of significant need. This year, in response to increased food insecurity, we are providing cash transfers which help to feed up to 864,000 people and support 500 health facilities with the medicines, vaccines, and nutritional supplements they need to treat 700,000 severely malnourished children.

This year, the UK's Food Security Safety Nets programme in Yemen will provide £58 million to reduce the risk of severe food insecurity, and support the Government of Yemen economic reform to facilitate a more coherent and coordinated response. In response to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification analysis, the UK mobilised an additional £13 million to support nearly one million people with emergency cash transfers. Moreover, the UK's Affordability of Food and Finance in Yemen (AFFY) programme delivers in Government of Yemen controlled areas boosting short-term macro-economic stabilisation and encouraging economic de-escalation to combat drivers of food insecurity.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the implications for her policies of an Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis showing that over 17 million people in Yemen are currently facing IPC Phase 3+ (Crisis) food insecurity or worse, projected to rise to 18.1 million, representing around 52 per cent of the population, including 41,000 at risk of IPC Phase 5 (Catastrophe), by February 2026.

Yemen remains one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, with 19.5 million people in need of humanitarian assistance. At the UN Security Council Monthly Briefing on Yemen, the UK continues to call for quick and collaborative action from the international community to respond to the rapidly deteriorating levels of food security and ensure the most vulnerable Yemenis are receiving the support they need.

The UK is currently the largest donor to the Yemen Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, committing £139 million in humanitarian aid in 2024 and maintaining our commitment this financial year. Since 2015, the UK has committed over £1 billion in aid to Yemen to alleviate suffering and support the most vulnerable. The UK focuses our programming on integrating health, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and food security responses in areas of significant need. This year, in response to increased food insecurity, we are providing cash transfers which help to feed up to 864,000 people and support 500 health facilities with the medicines, vaccines, and nutritional supplements they need to treat 700,000 severely malnourished children.

This year, the UK's Food Security Safety Nets programme in Yemen will provide £58 million to reduce the risk of severe food insecurity, and support the Government of Yemen economic reform to facilitate a more coherent and coordinated response. In response to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification analysis, the UK mobilised an additional £13 million to support nearly one million people with emergency cash transfers. Moreover, the UK's Affordability of Food and Finance in Yemen (AFFY) programme delivers in Government of Yemen controlled areas boosting short-term macro-economic stabilisation and encouraging economic de-escalation to combat drivers of food insecurity.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking to (a) increase UK humanitarian assistance and (b) support macro-economic measures to mitigate drivers of food insecurity in Yemen; and what her planned timetable is for this.

Yemen remains one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, with 19.5 million people in need of humanitarian assistance. At the UN Security Council Monthly Briefing on Yemen, the UK continues to call for quick and collaborative action from the international community to respond to the rapidly deteriorating levels of food security and ensure the most vulnerable Yemenis are receiving the support they need.

The UK is currently the largest donor to the Yemen Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, committing £139 million in humanitarian aid in 2024 and maintaining our commitment this financial year. Since 2015, the UK has committed over £1 billion in aid to Yemen to alleviate suffering and support the most vulnerable. The UK focuses our programming on integrating health, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and food security responses in areas of significant need. This year, in response to increased food insecurity, we are providing cash transfers which help to feed up to 864,000 people and support 500 health facilities with the medicines, vaccines, and nutritional supplements they need to treat 700,000 severely malnourished children.

This year, the UK's Food Security Safety Nets programme in Yemen will provide £58 million to reduce the risk of severe food insecurity, and support the Government of Yemen economic reform to facilitate a more coherent and coordinated response. In response to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification analysis, the UK mobilised an additional £13 million to support nearly one million people with emergency cash transfers. Moreover, the UK's Affordability of Food and Finance in Yemen (AFFY) programme delivers in Government of Yemen controlled areas boosting short-term macro-economic stabilisation and encouraging economic de-escalation to combat drivers of food insecurity.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what information her Department holds on the (a) quantity and (b) value of UK aid that has been denied entry to Gaza by Israel since March 2025; and what steps her Department is taking to help ensure that those supplies reach Gaza.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer of 14 October to Question 75011.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of Israel’s evacuation order from Gaza City on the adequacy of (a) food, (b) medical supplies and (c) space in humanitarian zones.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer of 17 September to Question 71870.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with her counterparts in (a) Israel and (b) neighbouring states on steps to (i) end the blockade of Gaza and (ii) to allow timely access for humanitarian aid.

I refer the Hon. Member to the answer of 15 September to Question 77707.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
10th Oct 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking to help (a) identify and (b) support older people in Gaza.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer given on 23 June to Question 57551.

Hamish Falconer
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)