Question to the Department for International Development:

To ask the Secretary of State of State for International Development, what recent steps the Government has taken to help alleviate the humanitarian situation in Afrin; and if she will make a statement.

Where they are able, UK-funded partners are delivering humanitarian assistance in Afrin and to those fleeing the area. This includes health, water, food relief and protection services.

The UK Government has called for de-escalation and the protection of civilians in Afrin, while recognising Turkey’s legitimate interest in the security of its borders. The Prime Minister has raised the need for protection of civilians and proper humanitarian access with President Erdoğan, as has the Foreign Secretary with Foreign Minister Çavuşoğlu.