Official Development Assistance: Vulnerable Children

Debate between Baroness Verma and Baroness Chapman of Darlington

Monday 23rd June 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

Faith-based organisations have a huge role to play. This morning, I visited GSK’s vaccine laboratory in Stevenage to talk about our Gavi pledge, which is coming up on Wednesday. Faith-based organisations are fundamental in ensuring that vaccination is taken up in some of the most difficult places to operate in the world. I would be very happy to work with the organisation that the right reverend Prelate refers to—I have not met it yet—to see how we can work together.

[Baroness Verma (Con)]

My Lords, does the Minister agree that part of how to help children through their education is by encouraging businesses to grow in the countries where it is most needed? Will she look to how we can support UK businesses in that journey, as many are trying their level best against a lot of challenges? If we could work together, maybe in the future we will not need the aid that is delivered.

Bangladesh: Aid and Development

Debate between Baroness Verma and Baroness Chapman of Darlington

Tuesday 3rd September 2024 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

I thank the noble and right reverend Lord for his question, which raises a very interesting point. He will be aware that the Government in Bangladesh are going through significant upheaval at the moment, if I can put it that way, but we are supporting the interim Government and will engage with the new Government, as he suggests.

[Baroness Verma (Con)]

My Lords, I wrote to the Prime Minister after Sheikh Hasina fled the country, having been removed by the protests. I have not received a response from him on the plight of Hindu and minority communities whose businesses and homes are being burned down by extreme elements in Bangladesh. If we are to give aid to Bangladesh, it must be with the protection of all.

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

I am grateful for the noble Baroness’s question and will convey her desire for a response to the Prime Minister. The UK remains deeply concerned by the violence that we have seen in Bangladesh and by reports of attacks against religious minority groups. The Foreign Secretary made clear that all sides now need to work together to end this violence, restore calm, de-escalate the situation and prevent any further loss of life.