Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether she has had discussions with her Australian counterpart on the support to help rebuild devastated wildlife populations in Australia.

The Prime Minister, Foreign Secretary, and Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, as Minister of State for the Commonwealth, have been in contact with their Australian counterparts to offer the UK’s condolences and assistance following the recent devastating wildfires. The UK High Commission and Consulates General are also liaising closely with Australian authorities at federal and state level to offer support. As a close friend and partner in international efforts to protect biodiversity, the UK Government stands ready to support the Australian Government in its response to the effects on wildlife populations, should such assistance be needed.