Myanmar Earthquake

Debate between Baroness Chapman of Darlington and Lord Geddes

Thursday 3rd April 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

I hear what the noble Baroness has said. At the moment, we have committed to match up to £5 million and I am sure, as she says, that the British public will rise to the challenge. It would be great to be in a situation where we are asked to increase that number because the response from the public has been so impressive.

[Lord Geddes (Con)]

My Lords, how can we ensure that the very welcome aid to which the noble Baroness has referred goes to those who need it most, when foreign correspondents are not permitted by the regime to enter Myanmar?

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

That is a very good question, and it is why we work with partners on the ground in a localised approach. We have trusted partners on the ground in Myanmar who we have worked with for many years now, so that is the best way to make sure that the aid does get to where it is needed most, and we have confidence that that is happening.

Red Sea: Houthi Attacks

Debate between Baroness Chapman of Darlington and Lord Geddes

Thursday 24th October 2024 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

We are doing everything we can to de-escalate the situation. We do not seek a conflict with the Houthis. We have had to take military action to respond to the threats to shipping, including to British vessels, and we will continue to do that as we need to. Everything we do is with the aim of de-escalation, not least because that is what the people of Yemen need. They are experiencing extreme hunger. We need to be able to keep getting the aid into the north of Yemen for the sake of those people.

[Lord Geddes (Con)]

My Lords, can UK-flagged merchant ships be armed if the owners, captain and crew agree?

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

Regarding decisions on maritime security, we have constant conversations with those responsible for shipping and give advice on security. We have not advised shipping to divert away from this route, but clearly those responsible are making decisions for themselves. We have seen a large number of vessels divert around the Cape of Good Hope, for obvious reasons.