Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking to ensure that Jimmy Lai obtains legal access to British consular support.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Hon Member to the Foreign Secretary's statement to the House on 15 December 2025, and her responses to the questions raised in that debate.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with her Chinese counterpart on Jimmy Lai’s treatment in prison.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Hon Member to the Foreign Secretary's statement to the House on 15 December 2025, and her responses to the questions raised in that debate.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking to help secure the release of Jimmy Lai.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Hon Member to the Foreign Secretary's statement to the House on 15 December 2025, and her responses to the questions raised in that debate.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether the full cost of capitalising the Chagossian Trust Fund in the UK-Mauritius Treaty will be met from (a) her Department's budget; and (b) be categorised as ODA expenditure.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The costs of the Treaty will be split between the Ministry of Defence and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and are non-ODA funded.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how many civil servants employed by their Department work in roles primarily focused on (a) transgender policy, (b) diversity, (c) equity and (d) inclusion; and at what annual salary cost.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 13 November in response to Question 88798.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether there was a cost to the public purse for external legal advice relating to the departure of Lord Mandelson as (a) Ambassador and (b) from the Civil Service.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Government has established processes to seek external legal advice in line with normal practice. The Government does not routinely comment on specific legal advice that it may or may not have received.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 16 December 2025 to Question 98122, on Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office: Public Appointments, if she will list the annual remuneration of each of the current Direct Ministerial Appointments in post.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The names of special representatives, envoys and direct ministerial appointments are published on gov.uk at the time of their appointment.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what the cost to the public purse was of feasibility studies conducted by their Department for projects that did not proceed in the last five years.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Data on feasibility studies specifically for projects that did not proceed is not tracked individually. Isolating this would require manual review of large volumes of data, making it impractical to extract reliably without disproportionate effort and cost.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how much their Department has spent on (a) advertising and (b) marketing in each of the last three years.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The requested information is not centrally collated by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and could only be obtained at disproportionate cost. All spending is subject to standard value for money assessments.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the government of Israel about its decision to recognise Somaliland as an independent state.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

Decisions on Israeli diplomatic recognition are a matter for the Government of Israel.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of regulations for a) the health and welfare of surrogate mothers and children born through surrogacy and b) ethical concerns associated with cross-border surrogacy arrangements.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Hon member to the answer provided to question HL6361 on 31 March 2025, a copy of which is reproduced below for ease of reference:

The UK does not support international surrogacy involving any form of exploitation and is committed to eradicating all forms of modern slavery, forced labour and human trafficking in line with Sustainable Development Goal 8.7. Globally the UK is proud to defend and promote universal and comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights. At the multilateral level, and through our diplomatic and Official Development Assistance partnerships, we advocate that all people have the right to make informed decisions about childbearing, including if, whether and when to have children. Family planning interventions, including surrogacy, must always be voluntary and rooted in a human rights-based approach.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking to help ensure that international surrogacy arrangements meet the same a) standards and b) checks as international adoption laws.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Hon member to the answer provided to question HL6361 on 31 March 2025, a copy of which is reproduced below for ease of reference:

The UK does not support international surrogacy involving any form of exploitation and is committed to eradicating all forms of modern slavery, forced labour and human trafficking in line with Sustainable Development Goal 8.7. Globally the UK is proud to defend and promote universal and comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights. At the multilateral level, and through our diplomatic and Official Development Assistance partnerships, we advocate that all people have the right to make informed decisions about childbearing, including if, whether and when to have children. Family planning interventions, including surrogacy, must always be voluntary and rooted in a human rights-based approach.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations they have made to the government of Algeria regarding restrictions on the freedom of worship of the Ahmadiyya Muslims.

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

I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 29 October 2025 in response to Question 83261.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how much their Department has spent on X and xAI since July 2024.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The central communication team at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has spent £722.77 on X Premium since July 2024, to enable the posting of longer-form messages, which can be essential when communicating in crisis situations. There has been no paid advertising on X by the FCDO since April 2023. We do not hold a central record of spending by overseas posts on X services, and this information could only be collated and verified for the purpose of answering this question at disproportionate cost.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what role her Department had in the decision to deproscribe Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham.

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

In the case of the de-proscription of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), I refer the Rt Hon Member to the written ministerial statement provided by the Security Minister on 22 October 2025, setting out the process leading up to that decision. De-proscription decisions are made by the Home Secretary following an extensive process of consideration and assessment of all available information, to which the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office contributes.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to WPQ 105155 answered on 20 January 2026, whether the topic of Russia, Iranian and Venezuelan registered oil tankers in British and Irish waters was discussed at the meeting on 3 December 2025

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

While this particular issue was not on the agenda for that call, the Ministers did discuss countering Russian aggression and our support to Ukraine, and we continue to discuss priority issues with our Irish counterparts as and when they arise, including at Ministerial level.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether it remains Government policy to support Israel’s participation in international cultural institutions and competitions; and whether she has assessed the potential implications for UK-Israel relations of boycott actions taken by broadcasters in Europe.

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

There has been no change of policy in this area, and no such assessment made.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she has had discussions with her Egyptian counterpart on the detention of Saeid Mansour Abdulraziq.

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

The UK champions freedom of religion or belief for all and, where appropriate, will raise these issues with the Egyptian authorities.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether her Department has a role in reviewing proscription designations for armed groups operating in Syria.

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

In the case of the de-proscription of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), I refer the Rt Hon Member to the written ministerial statement provided by the Security Minister on 22 October 2025, setting out the process leading up to that decision. De-proscription decisions are made by the Home Secretary following an extensive process of consideration and assessment of all available information, to which the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office contributes.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what the cost to the public purse was for the production of the Growth Gateway Masterclass on Fundraising in Africa.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Two masterclasses have been delivered using a catalytic model to build local capability, provide targeted expertise, mobilise investment, and support inclusive and sustainable growth. The training cost approximately £18,500 and has already delivered strong results, with one participating business securing £2.5 million in investment and others in ongoing discussions with investors.

Supporting economic prosperity, resilience, and partnerships for growth is particularly important in the context of reductions in Official Development Assistance. Africa is the world's fastest growing continent, and as the UK continues to move towards a trade and investment focused partnership, there are clear mutual benefits. Initiatives such as this masterclass support high growth African firms to scale, attract investment, and build lasting commercial links with the UK.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she has had discussions with international partners on referring human rights abuses against protesters in Iran to (a) the International Criminal Court and (b) other appropriate judicial bodies.

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

On 15 January, the Foreign Secretary joined G7 Foreign Ministers in condemning the deliberate use of violence and the killing of protesters, arbitrary detention, and intimidation tactics by security forces against demonstrators. As the Foreign Secretary told Parliament on 13 January, this government has continually raised human rights violations in Iran through the UN and international forums. The UK was integral to the delivery of the Iran human rights resolution, adopted by the UN Human Rights Council in April 2025, which renewed and expanded the Independent Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) on Iran. We continue to support the FFM to thoroughly and independently monitor and investigate allegations of recent and ongoing serious human rights violations in Iran.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the UK Minister Councillor Jennifer McNaughtan Statement at the Security Council on 19 December 2025, what recent assessment she has made of the effectiveness of her Department's work to encourage stability in Libya since 2020.

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

I refer the Hon Member to the statement mentioned in his questions, which sets out the UK's current position on these issues.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the UK Minister Councillor Jennifer McNaughtan Statement at the Security Council on 19 December 2025, what steps her Department is taking to strengthen Libya's internal stability and progress towards democratic elections.

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

I refer the Hon Member to the statement mentioned in his questions, which sets out the UK's current position on these issues.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking, in collaboration with the Government of Iran, to preserve freedom of religion or belief amid ongoing protests in Iran.

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

I refer the Hon Member to the statement made by the Foreign Secretary on 13 January, and her responses to the questions raised in the subsequent debate.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Chapman of Darlington on 4 December 2025 (HL12406), whether they have a framework for assessing Palestinian Authority curriculum reform targets; and if so, how that framework differs from that used by the European Commission.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

I refer the Noble Lord to the answer provided in the House of Commons on 16 December 2025 to Question 98592, which - for ease of reference - is reproduced below:

We welcome the Palestinian Authority (PA) contracting an independent audit firm to complete a review of curriculum reform in early 2026, and we would expect the results of that audit to be made public. The UK will continue to press for implementation of the PA's reform commitments, and will assess progress in the education area based on the audit results.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Chapman of Darlington on 4 December 2025 (HL12405), what specific evidence they have received or reviewed that demonstrates progress on Palestinian Authority curriculum reform.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

I refer the Noble Lord to the answer provided in the House of Commons on 16 December 2025 to Question 98592, which - for ease of reference - is reproduced below:

We welcome the Palestinian Authority (PA) contracting an independent audit firm to complete a review of curriculum reform in early 2026, and we would expect the results of that audit to be made public. The UK will continue to press for implementation of the PA's reform commitments, and will assess progress in the education area based on the audit results.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to facilitate and ensure provision, transport and access to mobile units for temporary dwellings for residents in Gaza, in particular ensuring delivery across the border with Israel.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

The UK is providing £81 million for humanitarian and early recovery support for Palestine this financial year. Last month, supplies of UK-funded tents entered Gaza, providing urgent shelter for 12,000 vulnerable civilians, and we will continue to push for the entry of further UK-funded aid, including tents and shelter kits, which have so far been unable to reach those in need. On 30 December 2025, the Foreign Secretary issued a joint statement alongside a number of international partners calling on the Government of Israel to remove restrictions hindering the delivery of essential humanitarian aid.

The UK is supporting the US-led plan for Gaza's post-conflict stability, as well as exploring the mobilisation of private-sector finance to support Palestinian-led reconstruction of Gaza. We have also deployed UK civilian and military experts to support the Civil-Military Coordination Centre that aims to coordinate reconstruction efforts in Gaza. In addition, the UK has announced £4 million of funding for the United Nations Mine Action Service to help clear rubble, protect civilians and aid workers, and enable the safe delivery of aid. In total, the UK is providing £116 million for Palestine this financial year for humanitarian aid, support for Palestinian economic development, and strengthening Palestinian Authority governance and reform.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with Arab states about the reconstruction of Gaza.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

The UK is providing £81 million for humanitarian and early recovery support for Palestine this financial year. Last month, supplies of UK-funded tents entered Gaza, providing urgent shelter for 12,000 vulnerable civilians, and we will continue to push for the entry of further UK-funded aid, including tents and shelter kits, which have so far been unable to reach those in need. On 30 December 2025, the Foreign Secretary issued a joint statement alongside a number of international partners calling on the Government of Israel to remove restrictions hindering the delivery of essential humanitarian aid.

The UK is supporting the US-led plan for Gaza's post-conflict stability, as well as exploring the mobilisation of private-sector finance to support Palestinian-led reconstruction of Gaza. We have also deployed UK civilian and military experts to support the Civil-Military Coordination Centre that aims to coordinate reconstruction efforts in Gaza. In addition, the UK has announced £4 million of funding for the United Nations Mine Action Service to help clear rubble, protect civilians and aid workers, and enable the safe delivery of aid. In total, the UK is providing £116 million for Palestine this financial year for humanitarian aid, support for Palestinian economic development, and strengthening Palestinian Authority governance and reform.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what capital funding they have allocated to support housing reconstruction in Gaza.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

The UK is providing £81 million for humanitarian and early recovery support for Palestine this financial year. Last month, supplies of UK-funded tents entered Gaza, providing urgent shelter for 12,000 vulnerable civilians, and we will continue to push for the entry of further UK-funded aid, including tents and shelter kits, which have so far been unable to reach those in need. On 30 December 2025, the Foreign Secretary issued a joint statement alongside a number of international partners calling on the Government of Israel to remove restrictions hindering the delivery of essential humanitarian aid.

The UK is supporting the US-led plan for Gaza's post-conflict stability, as well as exploring the mobilisation of private-sector finance to support Palestinian-led reconstruction of Gaza. We have also deployed UK civilian and military experts to support the Civil-Military Coordination Centre that aims to coordinate reconstruction efforts in Gaza. In addition, the UK has announced £4 million of funding for the United Nations Mine Action Service to help clear rubble, protect civilians and aid workers, and enable the safe delivery of aid. In total, the UK is providing £116 million for Palestine this financial year for humanitarian aid, support for Palestinian economic development, and strengthening Palestinian Authority governance and reform.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what action they are taking to facilitate and encourage the delivery across the borders with Israel and Egypt of accommodation shelters for people in Gaza.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

The UK is providing £81 million for humanitarian and early recovery support for Palestine this financial year. Last month, supplies of UK-funded tents entered Gaza, providing urgent shelter for 12,000 vulnerable civilians, and we will continue to push for the entry of further UK-funded aid, including tents and shelter kits, which have so far been unable to reach those in need. On 30 December 2025, the Foreign Secretary issued a joint statement alongside a number of international partners calling on the Government of Israel to remove restrictions hindering the delivery of essential humanitarian aid.

The UK is supporting the US-led plan for Gaza's post-conflict stability, as well as exploring the mobilisation of private-sector finance to support Palestinian-led reconstruction of Gaza. We have also deployed UK civilian and military experts to support the Civil-Military Coordination Centre that aims to coordinate reconstruction efforts in Gaza. In addition, the UK has announced £4 million of funding for the United Nations Mine Action Service to help clear rubble, protect civilians and aid workers, and enable the safe delivery of aid. In total, the UK is providing £116 million for Palestine this financial year for humanitarian aid, support for Palestinian economic development, and strengthening Palestinian Authority governance and reform.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what provision they are making to provide temporary accommodation structures or housing shelters to people in Gaza.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

The UK is providing £81 million for humanitarian and early recovery support for Palestine this financial year. Last month, supplies of UK-funded tents entered Gaza, providing urgent shelter for 12,000 vulnerable civilians, and we will continue to push for the entry of further UK-funded aid, including tents and shelter kits, which have so far been unable to reach those in need. On 30 December 2025, the Foreign Secretary issued a joint statement alongside a number of international partners calling on the Government of Israel to remove restrictions hindering the delivery of essential humanitarian aid.

The UK is supporting the US-led plan for Gaza's post-conflict stability, as well as exploring the mobilisation of private-sector finance to support Palestinian-led reconstruction of Gaza. We have also deployed UK civilian and military experts to support the Civil-Military Coordination Centre that aims to coordinate reconstruction efforts in Gaza. In addition, the UK has announced £4 million of funding for the United Nations Mine Action Service to help clear rubble, protect civilians and aid workers, and enable the safe delivery of aid. In total, the UK is providing £116 million for Palestine this financial year for humanitarian aid, support for Palestinian economic development, and strengthening Palestinian Authority governance and reform.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what capital funding they are providing to support people in Gaza.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

The UK is providing £81 million for humanitarian and early recovery support for Palestine this financial year. Last month, supplies of UK-funded tents entered Gaza, providing urgent shelter for 12,000 vulnerable civilians, and we will continue to push for the entry of further UK-funded aid, including tents and shelter kits, which have so far been unable to reach those in need. On 30 December 2025, the Foreign Secretary issued a joint statement alongside a number of international partners calling on the Government of Israel to remove restrictions hindering the delivery of essential humanitarian aid.

The UK is supporting the US-led plan for Gaza's post-conflict stability, as well as exploring the mobilisation of private-sector finance to support Palestinian-led reconstruction of Gaza. We have also deployed UK civilian and military experts to support the Civil-Military Coordination Centre that aims to coordinate reconstruction efforts in Gaza. In addition, the UK has announced £4 million of funding for the United Nations Mine Action Service to help clear rubble, protect civilians and aid workers, and enable the safe delivery of aid. In total, the UK is providing £116 million for Palestine this financial year for humanitarian aid, support for Palestinian economic development, and strengthening Palestinian Authority governance and reform.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government, in the light of the statement by Caroline Quinn, UK deputy political coordinator, at the United Nations Security Council meeting on 8 January, what technical assistance they provided to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons' Syria missions in 2025.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

In 2025, the UK committed over £2.8 million to the OPCW to support Syrian led operations to identify and verifiably destroy Assad's legacy chemical weapons programme. The UK has also provided technical support to joint OPCW and Syrian government efforts to develop comprehensive destruction plans.

More broadly, we welcome the adoption of important OPCW decisions that will provide the procedural underpinning to enable the UK to support Syria meet its obligations to the Chemical Weapons Convention, and we continue to engage the OPCW and Syria to support these efforts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether, in light of the President of the United States’ opposition to the UK-Mauritius Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia, they will share the Attorney General's legal advice on the status of the Chagos Archipelago with the United States.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

I refer the Noble Lord to the answer provided on 2 December 2025 in response to Question HL12208.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Chapman of Darlington on 27 November 2025 (HL11898), what the expected timeframe is for completing the review of the Prime Minister's Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict; and whether they will publish the full outcomes of that review, including any decision on the continuation or termination of that position.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

In her appearance before the Foreign Affairs Committee on 16 December 2025, the Foreign Secretary explained that work on the review of Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office envoys had been delayed because of September 2025's ministerial reshuffle, but we expect to complete that work in the near future.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how many full-time equivalent staff are employed on Net Zero, sustainability and climate reporting functions within her Department; and what the staffing cost of those roles was in 2024–25.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what estimate her Department has made of the additional cost to procurement contracts from the requirement for suppliers to provide Carbon Reduction Plans.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what costs have been incurred by her Department in complying with Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures requirements.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how much expenditure has been incurred on decarbonising her Department's UK estate since 4 July 2024, including heating systems, renewable energy installations and building upgrades.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how much her Department has spent on external consultants and advisers in relation to Net Zero, sustainability and climate reporting since 4 July 2024.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how much has been spent on developing the global Net Zero estate pathway, including consultancy, internal staffing and programme management costs.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what estimate her Department has made of the return on investment for overseas solar photovoltaic and battery storage projects funded since 2021.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what the capital cost was of overseas renewable energy projects undertaken by her Department since 4 July 2024 by country and project type.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what forecast expenditure her Department has made for Net Zero-related activity for each financial year from 2025–26 to 2029–30.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how much her Department has spent on electric vehicle charging infrastructure at overseas posts since 4 July 2024.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether additional costs have been incurred from transitioning the non-armoured overseas vehicle fleet to (a) electric and (b) low-emission vehicles.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what the total expenditure by her Department has been since 4 July 2024 on policies, projects and programmes contributing to achieving Net Zero targets.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Hon Member can find details of all programmes supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), including those related to climate change, at the Development Tracker website on GOV.UK. Where available, details of additional expenditure incurred in meeting the FCDO's net zero commitments is set out in the department's annual report and accounts.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she plans to keep the Gaza medical evacuation scheme operating.

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

We have supported a number of sick and injured children to leave Gaza and receive treatment in the UK. We continue to seek the most effective ways to deploy the UK's resources to meet healthcare needs in Gaza and the region and will update on this in due course.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she has taken to strengthen the UK's relationship with Indo-Pacific partners.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Rt Hon Member to my speech at the launch of the Asia House Outlook 2026 on 15 January, available on GOV.UK here: https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/asia-house-outlook-2026-keynote-speech. Additionally, my speech at the 2025 Indo-Pacific Conference at King's College London is available on GOV.UK here: 2025 Indo-Pacific Conference: Minister Malhotra keynote speech - GOV.UK

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what consideration they have given to recognising Somaliland as an independent state.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

It is the UK's long-standing position that the settlement of Somaliland's status is an issue for authorities in Mogadishu and Hargeisa to decide through a consultative process and dialogue, in line with the principles of the UN charter.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what the Government’s anticipated timetable is for laying the UK-EU Treaty on Gibraltar before Parliament for scrutiny and ratification.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The final text will be brought before the House in due course for scrutiny in the normal way pursuant to the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act 2010.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent information she has on the condition of Craig and Lindsay Foreman.

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

I refer the Hon Member to the answer given on 20 January to Question 106167. Last week, Minister Falconer met members of the Foreman family, and we continue to raise the case directly with the Iranian authorities.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with her a) Israeli and b) European counterparts on the decision to restrict the operations of international non-governmental organisations in Gaza and the West Bank.

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

I refer the Hon Member to the statement to the House I made on 5 January, and to the joint statement issued by the Foreign Secretary and several of her counterparts on 30 December, available on GOV.UK here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/jointstatementon-the-gaza-humanitarian-response

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether her Department has made contingency plans to support democracy in Iran.

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

I refer the Hon Member to the Foreign Secretary's statement to the House on 13 January, and to my responses in the Urgent Question debate on 19 January.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she plans to make a written or oral statement to the House on progress towards ratification of the UK-EU Treaty on Gibraltar, including the remaining steps and expected timescales.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The final text will be brought before the House in due course for scrutiny in the normal way pursuant to the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act 2010.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether the Government intends to publish an Explanatory Memorandum alongside the UK-EU Treaty on Gibraltar addressing its constitutional, economic and security implications.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The final text will be brought before the House in due course for scrutiny in the normal way pursuant to the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act 2010.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what information her Department holds on the security situation in northern Kosovo.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

We follow political and security developments in Kosovo closely, including in the northern municipalities, with British Embassy staff travelling and engaging with communities across the country. We also work closely with international partners, including the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) Kosovo Force (KFOR), the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and the EU to monitor developments and support efforts to reduce tensions and maintain stability.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what information she holds on the reasons for China’s recent mobilisation of fishing boats to form floating barriers.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

We are aware of media reporting regarding a recent mobilisation of Chinese fishing vessels in the East China Sea. The UK has enduring interests in the Indo-Pacific and is committed to maintaining regional security and stability. We are committed to international law, the primacy of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and to freedom of navigation and overflight.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answers by Baroness Chapman of Darlington on 17 December 2025 (HL12793) and 5 January (HL13110), and with reference to paragraph 223 of the Guide to Parliamentary Work and paragraph 1.6(d) of the Ministerial Code, what is the public interest basis in terms similar to those in the Freedom of Information Act 2000 for neither confirming or denying whether Lord Mandelson has received a severance payment in relation to his role as Ambassador to the USA.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

It has been the normal practice under successive governments, including the one in which the Noble Lord served, for the details of individual severance payments received by ministers to be disclosed on a named basis in departmental annual reports, but for payments made to senior officials, special advisers and other employees to be disclosed anonymously.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she has taken to help support democratic reforms in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Rt Hon Member to the answer provided on 9 September 2025 to Question 74449. Subsequent to that, in December 2025, the Peace Implementation Council and representatives of political parties in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) met to discuss long‑term solutions to BiH's challenges, including democratic reform. The UK will continue to work with international partners, including the Council of Europe and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, and local actors in BiH to promote democratic rights and support reform.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent representations she has made to her Bangladeshi counterpart on reports of violence against Hindu communities and the safety of religious minorities.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK condemns all religiously motivated violence in Bangladesh.

We have consistently raised the importance of protecting religious minorities with the Bangladeshi authorities, including during visits by the UK Human Rights Ambassador in February 2025, and Baroness Chapman in November. The British High Commission also meets with civil society groups and minority communities.

Bangladesh's Interim Government has publicly reaffirmed its commitment to protecting communities-Hindu, Buddhist, Christian and Muslim-including in a statement on 10 January. This statement set out steps being taken by the Home Ministry to respond rapidly to incidents, protect victims and witnesses, and ensure the law is applied fairly.

Our commitment to Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) is reflected through our engagement with civil society groups and minority communities as well as our £27 million Bangladesh Collaborative, Accountable and Peaceful Politics programme (2023-2028). The programme aims to protect civic space, foster inclusive dialogue, and address tensions that can lead to violence.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answers by Baroness Chapman of Darlington on 17 December 2025 (HL12793) and 5 January (HL13110), and the Written Answer by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on 18 December 2025 (HC97798), whether Lord Mandelson left the his role as UK Ambassador to the USA (1) for gross misconduct justifying summary dismissal, (2) on the grounds of efficiency, (3) as a result of disciplinary proceedings in circumstances where summary dismissal is not justified, (4) during the probation period, (5) on medical grounds, (6) on other compulsory grounds, or (7) in exceptional circumstances.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

It has been the normal practice under successive governments, including the one in which the Noble Lord served, for the details of individual severance payments received by ministers to be disclosed on a named basis in departmental annual reports, but for payments made to senior officials, special advisers and other employees to be disclosed anonymously.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether exit payments paid to departing Ambassadors and Heads of Mission are published in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's annual reports and accounts (1) by both name and amount, or (2) anonymised by grade and amount.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

It has been the normal practice under successive governments, including the one in which the Noble Lord served, for the details of individual severance payments received by ministers to be disclosed on a named basis in departmental annual reports, but for payments made to senior officials, special advisers and other employees to be disclosed anonymously.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her policies of Georgia’s latest legislative reforms for its Euro-Atlantic integration.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Rt Hon Member to the answer she received on 20 January in response to Questions 104701-02.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking to help support civil society organisations in Georgia.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Rt Hon Member to the answer she received on 20 January in response to Questions 104701-02.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of India about the detention of Associate Professor Hany Babu.

Answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington - Minister of State (Development)

The UK has a broad and respectful dialogue with Indian interlocutors about human rights and rule of law. In the case of Professor Babu, it was reported in December that he has now been released from detention on bail.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking with her counterparts in the Commonwealth to help support Zimbabwe rejoin the Commonwealth.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Rt Hon Member to the answer he received on 23 June 2025 in response to Question 57617. We will update the House if there are any new developments.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she has had discussions with the US ambassador on the potential summoning of Jonathan Benger.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Ministers, officials and executives from a wide range of UK departments and agencies are in regular dialogue with US interlocutors on an equally wide range of issues. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office does not hold records of all such discussions.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether her Department instructed Jonathan Benger to meet with the United States Ambassador.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Ministers, officials and executives from a wide range of UK departments and agencies are in regular dialogue with US interlocutors on an equally wide range of issues. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office does not hold records of all such discussions.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps her Department is taking to ensure the continued delivery of humanitarian aid in Gaza and the West Bank.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Hon Member to the responses given on 20 January to the identical set of questions asked by his colleague, the Member for South Cambridgeshire, on 12 January (UINs 105089, 105090, 105095 and 105097)

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps her Department is taking to address humanitarian crises caused or exacerbated by climate change.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Hon Member to the responses given on 20 January to the identical set of questions asked by his colleague, the Member for South Cambridgeshire, on 12 January (UINs 105089, 105090, 105095 and 105097)

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps her Department is taking to promote the rights and wellbeing of children in conflict zones.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Hon Member to the responses given on 20 January to the identical set of questions asked by his colleague, the Member for South Cambridgeshire, on 12 January (UINs 105089, 105090, 105095 and 105097)

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent assessment her Department has made of trends in the level of the persecution of Christians and other religious minorities in Iran; and what steps she is taking to support religious freedom and human rights in that country.

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

We continue to monitor Iran's violations of the rights of religious minorities, and are committed to working with international partners to hold Iran to account. My Hon Friend the UK Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, has worked closely on this issue - including hosting events in partnership with with Open Doors and Christian Solidarity Worldwide. We were integral to the delivery of an Iran human rights resolution, adopted by the UN Third Committee in November 2025, which called on Iran to ensure Iranians have the right to freedom of religion or belief in accordance with its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the level of the threat posed to UK interests by extremist groups operating in north-west Syria.

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

We are closely monitoring the developing situation in Syria and the threat posed by extremist groups, including Daesh and Al Qaeda-linked groups. Daesh's ability to direct, enable and inspire attacks remains one of the most significant global terrorist threats, including to the UK, our people and our interests overseas. The safety and security of the UK and its people remains the foremost priority of this Government and we are working closely with international partners, including the Global Coalition against Daesh, to mitigate risks to the UK and shared national security risks.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps her Department is taking to ensure that UK Official Development Assistance reaches the people most in need.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the Hon Member to the responses given on 20 January to the identical set of questions asked by his colleague, the Member for South Cambridgeshire, on 12 January (UINs 105089, 105090, 105095 and 105097)

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how much funding from the Overseas Development Assistance budget has been directed towards housing (a) asylum seekers, (b) refugees and (c) illegal migrants in their first year living in the UK in each year since 2020.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK reports its Official Development Assistance spend on a calendar year basis in the Statistics on International Development, including the amount spent on in-donor refugee costs.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with relevant stakeholders on Official Development Assistance allocations.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

We are working through detailed decisions on how the Official Development Assistance budget will be used from 2026/27 to 2028/29, informed by internal and external consultation and impact assessments. We plan to publish indicative allocations for the next three years in the coming months.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, when she plans to announce Official Development Assistance allocations.

Answered by Chris Elmore - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

We are working through detailed decisions on how the Official Development Assistance budget will be used from 2026/27 to 2028/29, informed by internal and external consultation and impact assessments. We plan to publish indicative allocations for the next three years in the coming months.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent assessment she has made of the effectiveness of UK sanctions on restricting Russia from securing revenue from energy exports.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Government is taking decisive action alongside international partners to increase pressure on Russian energy revenues. Last year, the UK and US sanctioned Russia's four oil majors. Russia's oil export revenues are now at their lowest since the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022. On 15 January, the Government announced that we would move alongside the EU in lowering the Oil Price Cap on Russia crude from $47.60 to $44.10 per barrel. The UK and EU have both announced bans on the import of refined oil of Russian origin and both will introduce maritime services bans relating to Russian Liquefied Natural Gas.

We have led international efforts to disrupt Russia's shadow fleet. The UK has now specified 545 vessels under the Russia sanctions regime, including 520 oil tankers and 16 liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers.

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Found: However, we consider the Government’s phased reduction of ODA and structural changes to the FCDO to

Found: It was asking about FCDO meetings with the US Government, and FCDO was not a decision-maker on the planning

Found: approach to climate programming by maintaining some projects and programmes directly funded under FCDO

Found: The experience of the FCDO-funded Building Resilience Communities in Somalia Consortium shows that,

Found: While FCDO provides data through IATI on which part of projects count as ICF, along with extensive project

Found: investing in early-stage enterprises tackling poverty— supported in part through our partnership with FCDO

Found: ICF0035 - The UK’s International Climate Finance Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Written Evidence

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Found: designed to address climate and fragility risks together, maximise sustainable impact, and position FCDO

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Found: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Oral Evidence

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Found: There is some interesting work that we have done with Comic Relief and that was funded by the FCDO—our

Found: suggesting that they wish to highlight the close working relationship between the Cabinet Office and the FCDO

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Found: For example, on asylum, if someone’s origin country is no longer on the FCDO list of unsafe countries

Found: For example, on asylum, if someone’s origin country is no longer on the FCDO list of unsafe countries

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, pursuant to the Answer of 13 January 2026 to Question 103110 on Exports: Ammunition, on what evidential basis the Minister stated that the Government does not licence the export of any bombs or ammunition for use in military operations in Gaza or the West Bank.

Answered by Chris Bryant - Minister of State (Department for Business and Trade)

Licence applications for the export of controlled goods, including bombs and ammunition, are considered by the Export Control Joint Unit. Relevant teams, including technical experts and officials within DBT, FCDO and MOD, consider every application on a case-by-case basis.

On the basis of such assessments this Government has been clear that the UK does not licence the export of any bombs or ammunition for use in military operations in Gaza or the West Bank.

Information on export licensing is publicly available at: Strategic export controls: quarterly licensing statistics - GOV.UK. The Government has previously published exceptional information relating to Israel available at: Export control licensing management information for Israel - GOV.UK.

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Found: David Rutley - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Found: Passports issued overseas by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office did not have machine readable

Found: (FCDO), resulted in updated reporting of assets and floor area.

Found: FOI release: Potential call-off contracts awarded by FCDO Services

Found: FOI release: Potential call-off contracts awarded by FCDO Services

Found: FOI release: Potential call-off contracts awarded by FCDO Services

Found: stayed in accommodation vetted by the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: Ingebrigtsen (SG Special Adviser) [redacted – s.38] Rebecca Terzeon (British High Commissioner, FCDO

Found: Diplomatic Assistance: A count of Scottish Government officials (FCDO or Scottish Government International

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Found: UK Government’s Overseas Network Review, led by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO

Found: UK Government’s Overseas Network Review, led by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO