Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Laurence Robertson and Priti Patel

Monday 9th November 2020 Commons Chamber

[Priti Patel]

Of course, the answer is absolutely yes. The hon. Gentleman will be very aware of the work the Government have done over recent years when it comes to resettling asylum seekers and refugees through our resettlement scheme. I am very happy to discuss that with him.

[Mr Laurence Robertson (Tewkesbury) (Con) [V]]

Can we look at the visa application system for businesspeople coming to this country? For far too many it is far too technical. and it really does need a review.

[Priti Patel]

My hon. Friend raises an important change that is coming through our points-based immigration system, with simplification coming into the system, as he will be aware. He is absolutely right; part of our mantra as global Britain is that we are open to the world and, in particular, to those who want to contribute to our economy and our country.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Laurence Robertson and Priti Patel

Wednesday 22nd February 2017 Commons Chamber

[The Secretary of State for International Development (Priti Patel)]

The global goals are absolutely embedded not just in what the Department for International Development does, but across Government. As I may have mentioned in response to other questions, we are in the process of revising every single departmental plan across Government, and the global goals will be fully recognised in that process.

[Mr Laurence Robertson (Tewkesbury) (Con)]

4. What assessment she has made of the humanitarian situation in South Sudan.

[The Secretary of State for International Development (Priti Patel)]

The humanitarian situation in South Sudan is deeply concerning, with 4.9 million people who do not have enough to eat. Famine has been declared in the Unity State. We are monitoring the situation and working to get direct aid into South Sudan at what is, quite frankly, a devastating time for that country.

[Mr Robertson]

I thank the Secretary of State for her response and for the work that she is carrying out in South Sudan. As well as providing the immediate humanitarian assistance, is there any prospect of building some sort of in-country resilience for the future?

[Priti Patel]

My hon. Friend makes an important point. Our priority, of course, is emergency aid—food assistance and water. We are also asking others to step up, particularly donors. We are calling on all sides that are involved in the conflict to end the fighting, because we need long-term political solutions if we going to end the current crisis.