Support for Civilians Fleeing Gaza

Debate between Ronnie Cowan and Leo Docherty

Tuesday 6th February 2024 Commons Chamber

[Leo Docherty]

We all have a responsibility. All developed nations have a responsibility to ensure that the urgent humanitarian disaster in Gaza is made less severe by our interventions. That is what we are doing.

Right now, it is clear that we need measures to increase the provision of humanitarian aid to help those in desperate need. The Government are therefore focused on these efforts, alongside our efforts to achieve a sustainable ceasefire. That is how we will help those suffering in Gaza.

[Ronnie Cowan (Inverclyde) (SNP)]

The Minister talks about a sustainable ceasefire, but at what point will this Government actually call for a ceasefire?

[Leo Docherty]

I will come to that. We have called for a humanitarian pause and a sustainable ceasefire. I will remark on what that means presently, but colleagues should be aware that we have trebled our aid to the Occupied Palestinian Territories since 7 October, committing £60 million this financial year. This supports crucial partners such as the British Red Cross, the UN and the Egyptian Red Crescent Society to help civilians with food, fuel, water, healthcare and shelter.