Mindanao Earthquake

Lord Foulkes of Cumnock Excerpts

Wednesday 10th June 2026 Lords Chamber

[Lord Lemos (Lab)]

Yes, I am happy to do that. I am happy to talk and happy to write with more detail, if that will be helpful. On the specific question that the noble Lord asked about climate resilience, agriculture and solar energy, particularly in the blue economy we have a very active programme and have committed up to £20 million to various kinds of technical assistance. My briefers in the FCDO told me that, even if they do not ask for a letter, I should offer to send one, because we have a lot of good things to say—so I will.

[Lord Foulkes of Cumnock (Lab Co-op)]

My Lords, it is my recollection that we used to be rather speedier in response when we had a separate Department for International Development, which was unfortunately abolished by the Government of the party opposite. Would the Minister, however tentatively, give some indication that, when circumstances permit, we will consider reinstating a separate Department for International Development?

[Lord Lemos (Lab)]

I am afraid that I do not feel empowered to propose machinery of government changes, tentatively or otherwise. It is important to us that our international development effort, particularly—and the whole House knows this—in tough fiscal circumstances, comes together with our diplomatic and defence efforts in a co-ordinated way. Of course, the Government will consider the right machinery of government to achieve that.