Lord Chidgey Portrait

Lord Chidgey

Liberal Democrat - Life peer

Became Member: 17th June 2005

Left House: 15th February 2022 (Death)


Foreign Affairs Committee
1st Nov 1999 - 12th Jul 2005
Shadow Spokesperson (Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs)
1st Jan 1999 - 5th May 2005
Panel of Chairs
1st Jan 2001 - 5th May 2005
Draft Children (Contact) and Adoption Bill (Joint Committee)
8th Feb 2005 - 5th May 2005
Human Rights (Joint Committee)
14th Jan 2003 - 11th Apr 2005
Standards and Privileges
16th Jul 2001 - 5th Nov 2001
Shadow Spokesperson (Trade and Industry)
1st Jan 1997 - 1st Jan 1999
Shadow Spokesperson (Transport)
1st Jan 1995 - 1st Jan 1997
Shadow Spokesperson (Employment)
9th Jun 1994 - 1st Jan 1995


Division Voting information

Lord Chidgey has voted in 880 divisions, and 11 times against the majority of their Party.

9 Nov 2020 - Agriculture Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Chidgey voted No - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 1 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 80 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 130 Noes - 290
24 Oct 2018 - Ivory Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Chidgey voted No - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 1 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 16 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 82 Noes - 127
22 Oct 2014 - Criminal Justice and Courts Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Chidgey voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 9 Liberal Democrat Aye votes vs 50 Liberal Democrat No votes
Tally: Ayes - 186 Noes - 185
4 Nov 2013 - Energy Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Chidgey voted No - against a party majority and against the House
One of 24 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 43 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 237 Noes - 193
26 Mar 2012 - Procedure of the House - View Vote Context
Lord Chidgey voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 17 Liberal Democrat Aye votes vs 39 Liberal Democrat No votes
Tally: Ayes - 319 Noes - 96
25 Jan 2012 - Welfare Reform Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Chidgey voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 16 Liberal Democrat Aye votes vs 30 Liberal Democrat No votes
Tally: Ayes - 270 Noes - 128
19 Jan 2011 - Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Chidgey voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 13 Liberal Democrat Aye votes vs 44 Liberal Democrat No votes
Tally: Ayes - 196 Noes - 122
8 Jul 2009 - Parliamentary Standards Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Chidgey voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 6 Liberal Democrat Aye votes vs 18 Liberal Democrat No votes
Tally: Ayes - 88 Noes - 110
7 Jul 2009 - Coroners and Justice Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Chidgey voted No - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 21 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 27 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 141 Noes - 194
1 Jun 2009 - Marine and Coastal Access Bill [HL] - View Vote Context
Lord Chidgey voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 1 Liberal Democrat Aye votes vs 33 Liberal Democrat No votes
Tally: Ayes - 93 Noes - 154
5 Mar 2008 - Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Chidgey voted No - against a party majority and against the House
One of 3 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 28 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 148 Noes - 87
View All Lord Chidgey Division Votes

All Debates

Speeches made during Parliamentary debates are recorded in Hansard. For ease of browsing we have grouped debates into individual, departmental and legislative categories.

Sparring Partners
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative)
Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
(48 debate interactions)
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Department Debates
Cabinet Office
(9 debate contributions)
View All Department Debates
Legislation Debates
Environment Act 2021
(5,455 words contributed)
Trade Bill 2019-21
(1,933 words contributed)
Agriculture Act 2020
(1,739 words contributed)
View All Legislation Debates
View all Lord Chidgey's debates

Lords initiatives

These initiatives were driven by Lord Chidgey, and are more likely to reflect personal policy preferences.


Lord Chidgey has not introduced any legislation before Parliament

Lord Chidgey has not co-sponsored any Bills in the current parliamentary sitting


Latest 50 Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department
9th Dec 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government what estimate they have made of the number of people who have died from COVID-19 related conditions at home since the beginning of the first lockdown in March 2020.

The information requested falls under the remit of the UK Statistics Authority. I have, therefore, asked the Authority to respond.

Professor Sir Ian Diamond | National Statistician

The Lord Chidgey

House of Lords

London

SW1A 0PW

15 December 2021

Dear Lord Chidgey,

As National Statistician and Chief Executive of the UK Statistics Authority, I am replying to your Parliamentary Question asking what estimate has been made of the number of people who have died from COVID-19 related conditions at home since the beginning of the first lockdown in March 2020 (HL4828).

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is responsible for publishing statistics on deaths registered in England and Wales. National Records Scotland (NRS) and Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) are responsible for publishing the number of deaths registered in Scotland and Northern Ireland respectively. Mortality statistics are compiled from information supplied when deaths are certified and registered as part of civil registration.

Cause of death is defined using the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th edition (ICD-10). Deaths involving COVID-19 are defined by the ICD-10 codes U07.1, U07.2, U09.9 and U10.9.

Table 1 provides the total number of deaths registered and deaths involving COVID-19, in all locations and occurring in private homes, in England and Wales between 28 December 2019 and 26 November 2021. Deaths involving COVID-19 includes any death where COVID-19 was a contributory factor to death, not only as the underlying cause of death. These figures are included in our Deaths registered weekly in England and Wales release[1].

Yours sincerely,

Professor Sir Ian Diamond

Table 1: Total number of deaths registered[1], and deaths registered involving COVID-19[2], occurring in all settings and private homes[3], between 28 December 2019 and 26 November 2021, England and Wales

Total deaths in all locations

Total deaths involving COVID-19[4]

Deaths occurring in private homes

Deaths occurring in private homes involving COVID-19

1,142,940

155,502

319,877

9,333

Source: Office for National Statistics

[1]https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/bulletins/deathsregisteredweeklyinenglandandwalesprovisional/26november2021

[2] Figures are for deaths registered, rather than deaths occurring. More information can be found in the Impact of registrations delay release: https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/articles/impactofregistrationdelaysonmortalitystatisticsinenglandandwales/latest

[3] Deaths "involving" a cause refer to deaths that had this cause mentioned anywhere on the death certificate, whether as an underlying cause or not.

[4] Deaths include non-residents.

[5]The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Edition (ICD-10) definitions are as follows: COVID-19 (U07.1, U07.2, U09.9, U10.9).

Lord True
Leader of the House of Lords and Lord Privy Seal
9th Jan 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether local civil society organisations funded by the Department for International Development, Foreign and Commonwealth Office or Conflict, Stability and Security Fund programmes in conflict affected contexts will be able to contribute to the Integrated Security, Defence and Foreign Policy Review.

The review will reassess the nation’s place in the world, covering all aspects of international policy from defence to diplomacy and development. Government departments will be expected to engage, collaborate and seek a wide range of inputs from a range of external stakeholders to ensure proper challenge and scrutiny throughout the process.

Earl Howe
Deputy Leader of the House of Lords
9th Jan 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether (1) members of the public, (2) civil society organisations including think tanks, and (3) peacebuilding and development non-governmental organisations, will be able to contribute to the Integrated Security, Defence and Foreign Policy Review.

The review will engage and collaborate with a range of external stakeholders to ensure proper challenge and scrutiny. We will listen and learn from different voices across society, from the public, academics to international partners. Good practice from previous reviews and strategies will be explored when formulating the right approach.

Earl Howe
Deputy Leader of the House of Lords
9th Jan 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government when the Integrated Security, Defence and Foreign Policy Review will be conducted; and when it will conclude.

The Prime Minister has committed to undertake the deepest review of Britain's security, defence, and foreign policy. The review will examine how we strengthen and prioritise our alliances, diplomacy and development; it will consider all aspects of our defence and security capabilities. An announcement of the timings of the review will be made in due course.

Earl Howe
Deputy Leader of the House of Lords
2nd Jul 2015
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what revisions they have made in the six-monthly review of Countries at Risk of Instability since the publication of the Building Stability Overseas Strategy in 2011.

The Countries at Risk of Instability (CRI) report is a classified assessment and we do not make public the revisions made in any reviews. We now produce the CRI report on an annual basis to align the CRI with the annual review of Conflict Security Stability Fund spending and since 2011 have undertaken four reviews. The methodology is regularly reviewed to improve the accuracy of the report.

20th Dec 2017
To ask Her Majesty's Government when they will publish the draft bill for their proposed register of the beneficial owners of overseas companies owning property in the UK.

On 11 December the Government published its new Anti-Corruption Strategy. In the Strategy we have committed to publish a draft bill in this session of Parliament for the establishment of a public register of beneficial ownership of overseas legal entities.

The Department ran a call for evidence on this policy earlier in 2017. We will publish a response to the call for evidence early in 2018 and will also set out more detail on the timeline for publishing the legislation.

18th Apr 2016
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of the effects of any inconsistencies in deadlines for the ratification of concluded and signed EU trade agreements established by the European Commission under the auspices of Economic Partnership Agreements.

I am not aware of inconsistencies in deadlines for the ratification of Economic Partnership Agreements between the EU and African, Caribbean and Pacific partners. EU Regulation 1528/2007 of 20 December 2007 states that ratification of the agreements should take place “within a reasonable period of time.”

18th Apr 2016
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of the impact on the normal functioning of parliamentary ratification processes in developing countries of the EU bringing forward the deadlines for ratification of EU Economic Partnership Agreements.

The EU has not brought forward the deadlines for ratification of Economic Partnership Agreements between the EU and African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) partners. EU Regulation 1528/2007 of 20 December 2007 states that ratification of the agreements should take place “within a reasonable period of time.” I expect the parliamentary ratification processes in developing countries to function as normal in relation to these agreements.

18th Apr 2016
To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they plan to discuss with the European Commission the effect of the deadlines placed on the ratification of trade agreements with developing countries where such deadlines could undermine the normal functioning of parliamentary engagement of these ratification processes.

EU Regulation 1528/2007 of 20 December 2007 states that ratification of the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) between the EU and African, Caribbean and Pacific partners should take place “within a reasonable period of time.” UK officials are in regular contact with the European Commission about the EPAs and we do not expect Regulation 1528/2007 to undermine the normal functioning of parliamentary engagement in the ratification processes for these agreements.

20th Dec 2017
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the exposure of universities to illicit financial flows through university engagement with philanthropic sources of funding.

The department has not made any assessment of illicit flows of funding to universities. However, as a result of the Higher Education and Research Act 2017, the Office for Students (OfS), as the market regulator, will act swiftly and decisively where the interest of the student and the taxpayer is at risk at any registered provider of higher education. OfS will have a range of powers that it will employ at a sector and individual provider level, as appropriate and proportionate, both to prevent fraud and to act when fraud is suspected.

Viscount Younger of Leckie
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Work and Pensions)
13th Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government (1) how many times since 1 January 2010 (a) the Environment Agency, or (b) any other government agency, was alerted of a possible breach in licensing conditions for water abstraction or discharge in chalk rivers and streams within (i) the Itchen, and (ii) other chalk stream catchments, (2) the dates and locations of such possible breaches, (3) what tests were conducted in response, (4) what the results were of any such tests, and (5) what steps were taken as a result of any breaches to licensing conditions that were identified (a) to penalise the perpetrators, and (b) deter further breaches.

The information requested is not held centrally and to obtain it would incur disproportionate costs.

29th Jul 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Food Programme FAO–WFP early warning analysis of acute food insecurity hotspots, published on 17 July, and in particular of the recommendation to preserve and scale up critical humanitarian food, nutrition and livelihood assistance.

We welcome this joint report and the recommendations made as they promote a comprehensive approach to tackling food insecurity. The FAO-WFP early warning analysis highlights countries that are at risk of significant food security deterioration, including the secondary impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and aims to inform urgent action to safeguard the food security of the most vulnerable communities in these locations.


The UK is working with international partners, including FAO and WFP, to closely monitor the situation and take action. As a leading donor to the COVID-19 response we are supporting our partners to ensure essential commodities and services, and pre-position food supplies for those most in need. We have also adapted our existing social protection, agriculture, and food security programmes, including support to the FAO on locust control, to support the most vulnerable.

29th Jul 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Food Programme on (1) the availability of food, (2) agricultural production, (3) food supply chains, and (4) governments’ capacities to protect vulnerable populations; and what are the expected outcomes of any such discussions.

The UK is concerned about the increasing risk of acute food insecurity, and we engage regularly with the FAO and WFP to discuss the global food security outlook. Recent discussions have focused on the indirect impacts of COVID-19 on food access and availability, agricultural production and food supply chains, and deteriorating trends.

The FAO and WFP regularly update the UK on their responses, in particular under the Global COVID-19 Humanitarian Response Plan (GHRP). Efforts have prioritised anticipatory action to safeguard livelihoods and increase access to food, alongside global humanitarian logistics services. These aim to ensure continuity of critical food supply chains, strengthened national social protection systems, and safety of key food supply chain workers. The UK remains among the largest donors to the global COVID-19 response and the GHRP. The UK remains among the largest donors to the global COVID-19 response and the GHRP. We will continue to work closely with key partners to ensure assistance reaches those who need it most.

28th Jul 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of international standing and influence of (1) the Canadian International Development Agency, following its merger with the Canadian Department of International Affairs and Trade, and (2) Australian Aid, following its merger into the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

We will learn from the examples of Australia and Canada, who run generous and respected development programmes from their foreign ministries. There are lessons we can draw from the experiences of other countries, but we will do this in a way that works best for the UK.

28th Jul 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of the diversion of 30 per cent of Official Development Assistance budget to departments other than the Department for International Development on (1) support for the poorest people, (2) the maintenance of transparency and effectiveness procedures, and (3) maintaining focus on poverty reduction.

The 2015 Aid Strategy set out the Government’s new approach to aid where we embraced an integrated approach to delivering Official Development Assistance (ODA). This recognised the role of aid in tackling poverty and global challenges such as insecurity and that this serves our national interest. The delivery of ODA programmes by departments other than DFID has enabled us to leverage knowledge, skills and expertise from across government, delivering programmes that contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals and addressing the diversity of today’s development challenges. This collective effort has allowed our ODA programmes to deliver both strong development impact. The Government remains committed to ensuring that every pound spent on ODA is spent transparently and achieves maximum value for money for taxpayers.

28th Jul 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the Department for International Development’s involvement in Haiti, given reports by the community and international agencies of the continuing levels of poverty, unrest, sexual exploitation and abuse.

While the UK does not have a bilateral development programme in Haiti, we support Haiti through our contributions to agencies such as the United Nations, European Union and the World Bank Group who have a strong presence on the ground. Our contributions are helping to make sure reconstruction reduces future disaster risks, health facilities are more climate resilient and the economy is better managed and supported. DFID holds itself to the highest standards and UK Aid must be delivered at all times in ways which do no harm. We will not fund any organisation that does not meet our high standards on safeguarding. Evidence suggests that sexual exploitation and abuse increase during crises and we must never be complacent. This is a long-term agenda and DFID continues to drive work to tackle sexual exploitation and abuse and sexual harassment. We are making good progress with initiatives that root out perpetrators and improve support to survivors and victims.

27th Jul 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what estimate they have made, if any, of the proportion of the UK aid budget now spent outside of the Department for International Development.

In 2019, 27% of UK ODA was spent outside of the Department for International Development. This includes spend by other government departments and funds as well as non-departmental spend such as debt relief and the proportion of gift aid used on ODA eligible activities.

27th Jul 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what estimate they have made, if any, of the reduction in the annual UK aid budget as a result of the reduction in the UK Gross National Income due to the economic impact of COVID-19.

Given the likely decrease in the size of the economy this year, and therefore a decrease in the value of the 0.7% commitment, a package of £2.9bn of reductions in the Government’s planned ODA spend has been agreed. This package includes underspends, delaying activity and stopping some spend. The package will see some reductions made now, with arrangements in place to tailor spending further during the remaining months as we start to gain a clearer economic picture. As normal, there will continue to be adjustments in-year to individual departmental ODA spend to meet the 0.7% commitment.

27th Jul 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of the extensive flooding across East Africa and the Horn of Africa in the context of the UK aid programme.

Across East Africa and the Horn of Africa, 25.8 million people are severely food insecure and 1.3 million have been affected by floods since March. The UK has responded to localised flood impacts through the START Network, including provision of relief items and recovery programming.

We are deeply concerned about the food security situation. Heavy rains in the region have provided conditions conducive to the unprecedented locust outbreaks, which will affect the food security situation even further. The UK is supporting the Food and Agriculture Organisation’s (FAO) emergency appeal to help to control the increase of locusts across East Africa, as well as reduce the risk of swarms spreading into the Sahel.

The humanitarian situation will be exacerbated by the impact of COVID-19. We are urgently redirecting UK aid programmes right across Africa to respond to these compound risks.

27th Jul 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what management and oversight precautions, if any, they are putting in place to (1) increase accountability of aid spending; and (2) prevent non-attributable day-to-day spending being re-badged as aid.

The Government is committed to ensuring that every pound spent on Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) achieves maximum value for money for taxpayers based on the same high standards of accountability and effectiveness as all areas of public expenditure. Individual departments are responsible under public spending rules for monitoring all public money including their UK aid programming and ensuring that they deliver value for money. Robust parliamentary and independent scrutiny of the aid budget will continue – the form that Parliamentary scrutiny takes is for Parliament to decide. UK ODA continues to be spent in accordance with international rules on what constitutes aid as set by the Development Assistance Committee of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.

27th Jul 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what progress they have made in redirecting aid programmes in each relevant country in Africa through (1) their country programmes, (2) multilateral programmes, and (3) the World Food Programme; and for full details in each case.

Many bilateral and multilateral aid programmes across Africa have been redirected, prioritising health, humanitarian, growth and trade as well as education and nutrition, recognising that these components are vital both for the immediate response to COVID-19, and for longer-term recovery. The UK has successfully pivoted huge amounts of programming to support nimble and innovative responses in African countries.


For example, in South Sudan, the UK is making a significant contribution to government-led efforts to prevent and respond to cases of COVID-19, including through support for infection prevention and control as well as water, sanitation and hygiene activities. The UK’s flagship Sexual and Reproductive Health Programme (WISH) has been adapted in 24 countries across Africa to ensure the continuation of lifesaving services to marginalised women and girls despite COVID-19. Multilaterally, £20m has been provided towards the African Union’s new COVID-19 response plan which funds and deploys health workers, clinical equipment, and capacity building training to all 55 AU Member States. In 2020, DFID has so far provided USD 254million to support the World Food Programme’s operations – this includes a USD 19million contribution to The World Food Programme’s Global Services in response to COVID-19.

29th Mar 2017
To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they are taking steps to ensure that Commonwealth countries do more to tackle global health threats, such as malaria.

The UK is a leader in accelerating malaria control through our contribution to the Global Fund, direct support to countries to develop and implement malaria policies, and our extensive research programme for new drugs, diagnostic and insecticides. Since it started work, the Global Fund has spent over £13.6bn in Commonwealth countries.

In addition, DFID supports a number of Commonwealth countries, for instance Ghana, to tackle health threats by strengthening their health systems – one of the most important methods to prevent, detect and respond to emerging and existing health threats.

6th Jul 2016
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of Médecins Sans Frontières' rejection of EU funding in Sudan in response to the EU's policies on migrants attempting to reach Europe.

We were disappointed to learn about Médecins Sans Frontières' rejection of EU funding in Sudan. Sudan is a major source, host and transit country for migration. As such we remain committed to tackling the full range of migration issues in Sudan, including addressing the conflicts and the human rights situation, and supporting regional co-operation and efforts to stop people trafficking and smuggling through the ‘Khartoum Process’. Through DFID, we will deliver support that addresses the root causes of migration, and strengthen the basis for inclusive economic development and increased employment opportunities to encourage Sudanese people to better see their future in Sudan.

14th Jun 2016
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of the investment case prepared by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria ahead of its replenishment conference taking place in Montreal on 16 September.

The investment case projects that a successful replenishment will enable the Global Fund to save 8 million lives and avert up to 300 million new infections over the replenishment period 2017-2019.

The UK wishes to see a successful replenishment; the final decision on a UK contribution is yet to be made and will depend on a multitude of factors, including the outcome of DFID’s Multilateral Aid Review to be published later in the summer and discussions between the Chancellor and Secretary of State.

14th Jun 2016
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what discussions the Secretary of State for International Development has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer about replenishment of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

The UK Government has enjoyed a successful partnership with the Global Fund to date. As the third largest donor for the replenishment period 2014-16, the UK’s investment will improve the lives of millions of people – helping to save approximately 580,000 lives through the prevention of 8.4m malaria, HIV and TB infections.

Earlier this year, the Chancellor of the Exchequer and I committed that the UK would spend £500 million a year battling malaria. The UK’s contribution to the replenishment of the Global Fund will play an important role in meeting the commitment.

The UK wishes to see a successful replenishment; the final decision on a UK contribution is yet to be made and will depend on a multitude of factors, including the outcome of DFID’s Multilateral Aid Review to be published later in the summer, and I look forward to discussing it with the Chancellor.

15th Jul 2015
To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they have plans to increase United Kingdom aid spending on water sanitation and hygiene on a regular incremental basis each year over this Parliament.

The Conservative Manifesto committed to help at least 60 million people to get access to clean water and sanitation by 2020, to stop terrible diseases. Exact allocations are to be determined following the Government-wide Spending Review and subsequent internal DFID processes.

15th Jul 2015
To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they have plans to introduce measures to maximise the impact of United Kingdom aid investment in water, sanitation and hygiene services (1) in health clinics, (2) in schools, (3) with respect to their strategy for the health of mothers, newborn babies and children, and (4) with respect to gender inequality.

The UK Government recognises the importance of promoting safe and reliable Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) in health centres and schools in developing countries to reduce environmental health risks. In health clinics adequate WASH is particularly important for the health of mothers, newborn babies and children, and this is recognised in DFID’s health service programmes.

The availability of water and sanitation in schools contributed to cleaner, safer, and more conducive learning environments. This is particularly important for girls who must have privacy as well as safe, convenient, hygienic conditions during menstruation. Where DFID has supported WASH in schools, there is anecdotal evidence that girls school attendance and performance is enhanced. International figures for WASH access in schools are much worse than health facilities and DFID has responded in its programming globally. In Sierra Leone, for example, this has prompted DFID to fund the construction of WASH facilities in 200 schools and 120 community health centres, as part of the Post-Ebola response.

DFID has a statutory duty to ensure gender equality is a consideration across all of its work. This follows the International Development Gender Equality Act passed in May 2015.

15th Jul 2015
To ask Her Majesty’s Government in which developing countries they are working with other governments to deliver sustainable water, sanitation and hygiene services.

In many countries the UK Government works with other donor governments to deliver sustainable water, sanitation and hygiene services. In Mozambique, for example, we have supported a Government of Mozambique led fund which is also financed by Canada, the Netherlands and Switzerland. We are a member of the Sanitation and Water for All partnership where we work with other governments to help set sector priorities. In other countries (Bangladesh, Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Malawi, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Uganda, Yemen, Zambia, and Zimbabwe) we work with partners such as UNICEF and non-governmental organisations who coordinate with other governments as appropriate. In all cases we coordinate with other donor governments in the developing countries where we work.

15th Jul 2015
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what plans they have to adopt and implement a dedicated sustainable development goal for water and sanitation, with targets for universal access to basic water, sanitation and hygiene by 2030.

The UK supports the inclusion of water and sanitation in the post-2015 agenda. We are pleased that the Sustainable Development Goals proposed by the Open Working Group includes a goal to ‘ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all’ which contains specific targets for drinking water and sanitation. We will continue to build on the work done so far on water, sanitation and hygiene as part of our efforts to finish the job on the current Millennium Development Goals and ensure that no-one is left behind.

In the last five years we have supported 62.9 million people, of whom 22.2 million were women, to access clean water, better sanitation or improved hygiene conditions through DFID’s Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programmes (exceeding DFID’s commitment of 60 million).

2nd Jul 2015
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what proportion of development aid was spent on the Building Stability Overseas Strategy in 2014–15.

UK development assistance contributes to delivering the Building Stability Overseas Strategy by tackling the short and long-term drivers of instability, supporting stronger and more legitimate institutions and societies, helping to meet basic needs and create opportunities for social and economic development for all, including women and girls. In 2013, 43% of UK Official Development Assistance was spent in Fragile and Conflict Affected States (FCAS), where the need to build stability is most pressing. Examples of DFID programmes:

· In Nigeria, the Stability and Reconciliation Programme (£38m, 2011-2016), aims to reduce incidence and impact of violent conflict.

· DFID’s support to the multi-donor Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund (ARTF) (£256.8m 2014-17) helps the Afghan government to provide basic services, and thus improve confidence in its ability to meet Afghan people’s expectations.

16th Jan 2015
To ask Her Majesty’s Government how Official Development Assistance was spent between November and December 2013; in which countries that aid was spent, on what projects; and what was the outcome of those projects measured in terms of aid effectiveness.

Statistics on ODA are published by calendar year, this is in line with international best practice. Information on country of spend is available from the National Statistics publication ‘Statistics on International Development’ https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/statistics-on-international-development-2014 . Information on spend by specific project is available from the Development Tracker http://devtracker.dfid.gov.uk/ .

6th Nov 2014
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what steps they plan to take to ensure that development initiatives in Mali are conflict sensitive, inclusive and politically accountable.

The UK remains very concerned about the situation in the Mali. Despite continued progress in political stabilisation, the security situation remains volatile.

Recognising the lessons of the previous peace agreements, which did not achieve a durable peace in Mali, the UK and other members of the Security Council have been working closely with all parties to encourage full and faithful implementation of a future comprehensive and inclusive peace agreement. Through the UK’s political, financial and personnel contributions to the UN Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) as well as regional EU Common Security and Defence Policy missions, the UK aims to promote political stability, good governance and regional cooperation as well as encouraging stability across the wider region.

Although DFID does not have a bilateral development programme in Mali, we are working with other donors to ensure that development aid effectively addresses the needs of all of the citizens of Mali, is conflict sensitive and contributes to political accountability, legitimacy and inclusiveness. DFID has seconded a conflict adviser into the EU delegation in Mali to that end. DFID always consider the longer term development impact when developing our programmes across the Sahel, including Mali. Further details can be found on the Department’s Development Tracker online.

26th Sep 2014
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of the effect of the recent announcement by the government of South Sudan that all foreign workers must leave that country; and what effect they expect that announcement to have on the United Kingdom’s aid, stabilisation and development programmes there.

The Minister of Labour, Public Service and Human Resource Development in South Sudan issued a circular on 12 September prohibiting and regulating the service and employment of aliens in certain positions in the private sector. The Minister subsequently issued a clarification on 17 September noting that this excludes all United Nations agencies, diplomatic missions and organisations that have signed bilateral/mutual agreements with the Republic of South Sudan; and also excludes many technical and professional positions in both private sector and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

The UK is supportive of South Sudan nationals filling positions where the relevant skills and experience exist within the labour force and we work to build capacity of the local workforce. The UK and other partners raised the issue of the Circulars at the Government Partners Forum on 18 September and stressed that much needed foreign investment could be seriously deterred by messaging that foreign workers are not welcome in South Sudan. We will continue to monitor the situation. The ability of humanitarian and development organisations to assist the most vulnerable must not be affected.

15th Jul 2014
To ask Her Majesty’s Government how many active members of the Civilian Stabilisation Group are (1) deployable civilian experts, and (2) members of the Civil Service Stabilisation Cadre; in the last year, how many of each group, including serving police officers, have been deployed on stabilisation missions; and what is the numerical size, including Crown Agents support, and annual cost of the Stabilisation Unit.

There are currently 1448 Members of the Civilian Stabilisation Group; of these 1132 are deployable civilian experts and 201 are members of the Civil Service Stabilisation Cadre. The remaining 115 are serving police officers.

32 Members of the Civil Service Stabilisation Cadre, 64 Serving Police Officers and 363 deployable civilian experts were deployed on stabilisation missions during Financial Year 2013/14.

The Stabilisation Unit currently employs 73 members of core staff and there are 30 Crown Agent staff employed in support of the Stabilisation Unit.

The annual cost of the Stabilisation Unit (the DFID, MoD and FCO-funded Conflict Pool) over the last three financial years is as follows:

2013/142012/132011/12
£10,423,250£12,343,758£12,208,061

15th Jul 2014
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what is their assessment of the recent Libyan general election, and in particular the impact of violence on the turnout; and whether they plan to increase development aid and to provide expertise to help stabilise the country.

The Libyan General Election was held on 25 June, despite challenging security conditions. The UK provided significant support to help ensure that the Election took place, including providing over £500,000 for a joint UN-Libyan Electoral Assistance Programme. Around 630,000 Libyans cast their vote out of a total 1.5m registered voters. The full results are due to be announced shortly.

Whilst the elections themselves passed off relatively peacefully, the recent escalation in violence risks undermining the process. Violence and the threat of violence are unacceptable and endanger the stability of the state, and the Libyan people’s aspirations for a secure and prosperous future.

The UK is providing assistance, including technical expertise, to help Libya tackle its political, security and economic challenges. The UK recently committed £62.5 million for a comprehensive Security, Justice and Defence programme which will support stabilisation in Libya over the next three years.

17th Dec 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessments they have made of the impact of bilateral agreements with African countries falling outside the UN category of Least Developed Countries.

UK Ministers and officials regularly engage with the African Union on a range of trade related issues, including our support for the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Furthermore, our Parliamentary Reports published alongside signed continuity agreements contain detailed information about the volume of trade, composition of imports and exports, and wider economic impact of agreements. These reports are intended to aid businesses, consumers and parliamentarians in understanding any significant differences made to our trade relationship with partner countries and the reasons for any changes, and their impact.

We will continue to voluntarily lay these Parliamentary Reports, with Explanatory Memoranda, alongside agreements.

17th Dec 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have held with the African Union about the UK's pursuit of bilateral agreements with African countries falling outside the UN's category of Least Developed Countries.

UK Ministers and officials regularly engage with the African Union on a range of trade related issues, including our support for the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Furthermore, our Parliamentary Reports published alongside signed continuity agreements contain detailed information about the volume of trade, composition of imports and exports, and wider economic impact of agreements. These reports are intended to aid businesses, consumers and parliamentarians in understanding any significant differences made to our trade relationship with partner countries and the reasons for any changes, and their impact.

We will continue to voluntarily lay these Parliamentary Reports, with Explanatory Memoranda, alongside agreements.

15th Dec 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to extend “everything but arms” access (1) to Ghana, (2) to Cameroon, and (3) to other non-least developed countries in Africa, where regional integration is otherwise threatened.

At the end of the Transition Period, the United Kingdom will create its Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP), which will replicate the three levels of market access provided by the EU’s Scheme. This is the most appropriate way to ensure continuity of trade for the existing 70 countries trading under the EU GSP.

We continue to engage with Ghana and Cameroon; they have each been offered a deal that provides the same trading arrangements as they have today.

15th Dec 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to consult with trade partners in Africa when developing their position on digital trade at the World Trade Organisation.

The UK supports inclusive multilateral trade that enables developing countries, including those in Africa, to engage at the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

For example, the UK-funded Trade and Investment Advocacy Fund (TAF2+) provided advice to the African, Caribbean and Pacific and Least Developed Country groups, enabling their effective engagement with discussions on digital trade. The programme launched national-level studies in Senegal and Mauritius, helping them develop positions relevant to the WTO E-commerce negotiations.

The UK also co-sponsored a WTO Council for Trade in Services communication, calling on members to share information on activities undertaken to address the digital divide.

15th Dec 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure that future trade agreements with countries in Africa align with (1) the Sustainable Development Goals, and (2) the Paris Climate Agreement, including committing to conducting sustainable development impact assessments for any usch trade agreements.

The United Kingdom has long supported the delivery of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and remains committed to the Paris Climate Agreement, as indicated by HM Government’s target to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

As we look toward our future trading relationships with all countries, including those in Africa, HM Government will continue to uphold the United Kingdom’s high environmental standards, and has committed to publishing a full impact assessment of all new free trade agreements alongside the full treaty text at the end of negotiations.

5th Feb 2019
To ask Her Majesty's Government what consideration they have given to restrictions on developing countries that are members of the East African Customs Union to sign reciprocal trade agreements with the UK in the event of a no-deal Brexit; and whether they intend to extend the current duty free and quota free access to UK markets to mitigate any potential losses to such countries as a result of a no-deal Brexit.

The UK continues to support the implementation of the EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the East Africa Community (EAC). As and when EAC partners find a way to agree to sign the EPA, the UK will seek to replicate this agreement.

As the UK leaves the EU, we want to avoid disruption to trade with EAC partners as far as possible. The Taxation (Cross-Border Trade) Act enables the UK to put in place a UK trade preferences scheme for developing countries. This will grant duty-free quota-free access to UK markets for Least Developed Countries including Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and South Sudan, while providing generous tariff reductions for other developing countries including Kenya.

5th Feb 2019
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assurances they (1) have given, and (2) plan to give to Ghana that its current duty free and quota free access to UK markets for agricultural products will continue until 1 January 2021 regardless of the outcome of the Brexit negotiations; and whether there are any other such countries to which similar assurances (a) have been, and (b) will be made.

As the UK leaves the EU, we seek to replicate the effects of seven EU Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) with African, Caribbean and Pacific countries, including with Ghana. We are working with partners to conclude and implement agreements from 29 March 2019 or as soon as possible thereafter in the event of a “no deal” exit.

29th Mar 2017
To ask Her Majesty’s Government how many specialist personnel, expert in international trade agreements within the Commonwealth, they have engaged by outsourcing to the private sector as part of the Brexit process; and how many of those have been engaged to deal specifically with trade agreements with South Africa.

The Department for International trade has not engaged any trade specialists, including for trade agreements with South Africa, via private sector outsourcing.

13th Jul 2016
To ask Her Majesty’s Government, in the light of the potential effects on investment of uncertainty around issues of future market access, whether they plan to commit to (1) extending bilaterally the duty- and quota-free access that the least developed countries have had to the UK market since 2001 once the UK’s exit from the EU is completed; (2) honouring the duty- and quota-free market access granted to Caribbean countries since 2008 until new bilateral trade agreements have been concluded; and (3) unilaterally extending the duty- and quota-free access granted to sub-Saharan countries under the transitional arrangements established since 2008 until new bilateral trade agreements have been concluded.

While the UK is still a member of the EU, all rights and obligations will apply. There will be no initial change in the way we trade with developing countries. The new Department for International Trade will work with the Department for International Development on the structure and access to the UK’s markets to be offered to developing countries. This will reflect the UK’s longstanding support for Least Developed Countries and other developing country trading partners including through preferential trade agreements. This recognises that trade can be an effective way of growing economies and reducing poverty internationally.

13th Jul 2016
To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they plan to continue to recognise EU sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) and food safety approvals for imports of agricultural products from the African, Caribbean and Pacific group countries once the UK’s exit from the EU is complete, or whether they plan to require exporters from those countries to secure separate SPS and food safety approvals for exports to the UK.

A new Department for Exiting the European Union has been established by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister, to oversee arrangements for the UK’s exit from the EU after we have triggered Article 50. Until then the UK remains a full member of the EU.

19th May 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they supported proposals made at recent meetings of G20 representatives for a global mechanism to provide affordable testing, treatment and vaccination for COVID-19.

The G20 Health Ministers’ Meeting was held on 19 April. During its intervention, the United Kingdom emphasised the importance of a coordinated global response to COVID-19, including on the development of vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics.

A globally accessible vaccine, alongside effective tests and treatments is needed to end the pandemic and start global economic recovery. This will need unprecedented global collaboration and resourcing to drive the speed and scale needed.

19th May 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of the United States about its decision to reduce funding to the World Health Organisation and the effects such reductions would have on the international efforts to combat COVID-19.

The United States has since made a further announcement regarding their funding to and relationship with the World Health Organization (WHO). The Department is regularly in discussions with other countries on a wide range of issues relating to the international response to COVID-19 including the United States. The United States continues to play an important role on global health, and we will continue to work with the United States and other international partners to tackle the current crisis. The United Kingdom has a strong and committed relationship with the WHO and, as the second largest Member State donor, continues to work closely with the WHO. The UK has already contributed £75 million to help the WHO lead international efforts to stop the spread of the virus and end the pandemic and the UK has no plans to stop funding the WHO, which has an important role to play in leading the global health response to COVID-19.

18th May 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what their policy was at the recent G20 meetings of health ministers on the proposal for a COVID-19 global mechanism for all countries to access affordable testing, treatment and vaccines.

The G20 Health Ministers’ Meeting was held on 19 April. During its intervention, the United Kingdom emphasised the importance of a coordinated global response to COVID-19, including on the development of vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics.

A globally accessible vaccine, alongside effective tests and treatments is needed to end the pandemic and start global economic recovery. This will need unprecedented global collaboration and resourcing to drive the speed and scale needed.