Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Desmond Swayne and Simon Danczuk

Wednesday 16th December 2015 Commons Chamber

[Simon Danczuk (Rochdale) (Lab)]

2. What information her Department holds on the level of youth unemployment in Gaza; and if she will make a statement.

[The Minister of State, Department for International Development (Mr Desmond Swayne)]

Gaza has the highest unemployment in the world. The World Bank estimates that youth unemployment had reached 60% by the end of 2014. Extensive restrictions inhibit employment. The UK continues to promote economic development and private sector-led growth.

[Simon Danczuk]

Gaza still faces restrictions on access to 35% of its agricultural land and 85% of its fishable waters, and Gazans are rarely allowed to travel outside their territory. Until such restrictions are removed, DFID will continue to work with one hand tied behind its back. Does the Minister not agree that the real problem is the blockade of Gaza?

[Mr Swayne]

As I said, the restrictions inhibit employment, but we will not give up. We have a programme for economic development, and it is making progress—slow and frustrating progress, but progress none the less.