World Health Organization: Pandemics

Lord Mann Excerpts

Tuesday 9th March 2021 Lords Chamber

[Lord Bethell (Con)]

The noble Earl refers to the important role that the WHO plays. Of course, we are all frustrated sometimes with our multilateral organisations, but the noble Earl quite rightly alludes to the dependence that many countries have on the advice, counsel and practical support that organisations such as the WHO provide. That is why we want the WHO to step up to its responsibilities, why we have instituted a major reform programme recommendation, and why we are extremely hopeful that the WHO steps up.

[Lord Mann (Non-Afl)]

Will the WHO have a specific input and a direct voice in the G7 deliberations?

[Lord Bethell (Con)]

My Lords, the WHO is not a sitting member of the G7, but we have a representative attending our health track in Oxford, and we have been in dialogue with them directly with our agenda on the G7.