Oral Answers to Questions

Kate Hollern Excerpts

Tuesday 24th October 2023 Commons Chamber

[Kate Hollern (Blackburn) (Lab)]

19. What diplomatic steps he is taking to help ensure access to Gaza by humanitarian organisations.

[Sarah Owen (Luton North) (Lab)]

21. What diplomatic steps he is taking to help ensure access to Gaza by humanitarian organisations.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Mitchell]

The hon. Gentleman sets out the tremendous suffering that is happening, but he, like me, will agree with the Prime Minister that the source of this was the appalling terrorist, murderous action by Hamas, which, as the Foreign Secretary said a few minutes ago, killed more Jewish people than on any day since the second world war and the holocaust.

[Kate Hollern]

As the fighting continues, the UN estimates that about 160 women will give birth every day in Gaza; meanwhile the lives of at least 120 newborns in incubators are at risk due to lack of power, fuel, medicine and water. These women and children are not terrorists. Will the Secretary of State listen to the increasing calls for a ceasefire, which would be the best way to ensure the release of hostages, who are in a terrible situation, and the delivery of aid for Palestinian citizens?

[Mr Mitchell]

On delivering aid and support, I had the opportunity to meet a very large number of the British charities and non-governmental organisations that are trying to help in Gaza, and I keep in very close touch with them. On the issue of access and support through these trusted agencies, we will do everything that we can to help.