Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent assessment she has made of the implications for her policies of the health and humanitarian situation in Malawi.

The UK delivers a substantial package of support to Malawi; we are proud to have been one of their biggest partners in responding to the challenges of COVID-19, and we are delivering aid programmes focused on strengthening systems so that the country is better equipped to respond to future shocks. This includes partnering with the Government of Malawi in upgrading health facilities, and providing cost-free access to health services, especially in remote areas.

Tropical storm Ana recently caused extensive damage to a densely populated and already food insecure part of Malawi. I spoke to President Chakwera on 2 February to express my condolences. In response to the storm, the UK is providing financial support to the multi-donor 'Start Fund' to help address the immediate needs of over 20,000 storm victims in the worst-hit districts in Malawi. This support includes cash, food, and support with accessing clean water.