Oral Answers to Questions

Neil Gray Excerpts

Wednesday 12th July 2017 Commons Chamber

[Rory Stewart]

The UK’s obligation under the sustainable development goals is to remain committed to our own performance. We are sticking with the Paris agreement, and we will demonstrate at home and abroad that we really care about clean, renewable energy and the future of this planet.

[Neil Gray (Airdrie and Shotts) (SNP)]

T1. If she will make a statement on her departmental responsibilities.

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

Yesterday I hosted a fantastic family planning conference here in London, dealing with the population challenges of regions such as Africa, demonstrating UK leadership and UK aid in action, and helping those who do not have a voice on that essential issue.

[Neil Gray]

Will the Secretary of State commit to not changing the UK definition of international aid without consultation with and the approval of this House—yes or no?

[Priti Patel]

I have already said that I am engaging all parties, meaning not just political parties but stakeholders and international colleagues. We have very clear guidelines on OECD development assistance committee rules. We will work with all partners to make the necessary changes.