Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps the Government will take to use its diplomatic influence to promote the strengthening of protections for civilians from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas.

On 18 November 2022, the UK joined 83 nations in adopting the Political Declaration on 'Strengthening the Protection of Civilians from the Humanitarian Consequences Arising from the Use of Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas (EWIPA).

The UK will work with allies, partners, and civil society to promote the aims of the Political Declaration. We will continue to use our knowledge and expertise to share good practice, strengthen cooperation with and support the work of international and civil society organisations, and encourage states to have appropriate procedures in place.