Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether his Department has had recent discussions with the International Monetary Fund on the potential impact of surcharges on (a) Pakistan and (b) other countries that have experienced climate disasters.

The Government expresses deep concern and condolences for the severe humanitarian and economic impact of flooding in Pakistan. The UK recently announced an uplift in Pakistan flood relief funding, taking the total amount pledged to £16.5m. In addition, at COP26, the UK announced more than £55m of support to help Pakistan tackle climate change.

The IMF considers surcharges to be an important part of its risk management framework, strengthening the Fund’s balance sheet and reinforcing its ability to provide financial support to vulnerable countries, including Pakistan and other countries experiencing balance of payments vulnerabilities stemming from climate disasters.