Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda: Ebola Outbreak

Lord Callanan Excerpts

Thursday 21st May 2026 Lords Chamber

[Lord Callanan (Con)]

My Lords, the outbreak of Ebola in this region is extremely concerning, and we welcome the funding that the Minister has referenced. Can she perhaps say what support is available to any UK citizens who are in the region, notwithstanding the difficulties of access to the eastern region of the DRC, which we all know about? What other consular support is available in these areas to any of our people?

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

Our team in Kinshasa is in crisis mode, as noble Lords would expect, and ready to provide any support. There are very few UK nationals in that part of the world because of the danger from the conflict, but there are some UK medics—I have met them—and well-tested protocols are in place should they wish to return to the UK. We know how to do this; we are experienced in doing it and, obviously, our priority is to keep the UK and our citizens safe.