G7 Summit

Baroness Garden of Frognal Excerpts

Thursday 26th November 2020 Lords Chamber

[Lord True (Con)]

My Lords, of course I note the points made by the noble Lord. The Prime Minister will give further details on the agenda for the G7 shortly.

[The Deputy Speaker (Baroness Garden of Frognal) (LD)]

Is the noble Lord, Lord Walney, with us? I do not see him, so I call the noble Baroness, Lady Fall.

[Baroness Fall (Con) [V]]

My Lords, the G7 started life as a fireside chat between the most powerful people in the world, a chance to resolve some of the most critical issues of the day—at the moment they will be spoiled for choice. If we want to see global action on climate change, Covid, mass migration, combating terrorism, eradicating poverty and dealing with China’s growing influence in the world, the provision of 0.7% is a very good way to start. Will the Minister explain how the cutting of ODA at this particular time, when we are about to take over the leadership of the G7, will prepare for those huge challenges?

--- Later in debate ---

[Lord True (Con)]

My Lords, my noble friend makes a profoundly important point. Again, within the constraints of not being able to anticipate announcements, I say that further details will come. What I can say to her is that, as she and I are both aware, girls’ education and training have always been a priority for the Prime Minister, and I am certain that he will drive that forward through the G7 discussions.

[The Deputy Speaker (Baroness Garden of Frognal) (LD)]

My Lords, all supplementary questions have been asked and answered and we now move to the next Question.