Question to the Department for International Development:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what steps they have taken to address the reported humanitarian and human rights crises in Rakhine State, Burma.

The UK remains deeply concerned by the ongoing persecution of Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State and allegations of human rights abuses. In response, UK Ministers and Ambassador have called on both civilian and military Minsters in the Government to urge a restrained response in line with international human rights standards, immediate and unfettered access for humanitarian aid and an investigation into allegations of human rights violations. Baroness Anelay, Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, visited Burma from 9-12 November specifically to address issues of human rights, with a focus on the prevention of sexual violence in conflict.

The UK has long been one of the biggest bilateral humanitarian donors to Burma and to Rakhine State. Since 2012, we have provided over £23 million in humanitarian assistance. DFID is currently managing to get humanitarian support to over 100,000 people in Rakhine, including providing assistance in IDP camps outside of northern Rakhine and limited support in northern Rakhine. DFID is also continuing to support development activities in Rakhine where possible. DFID stands ready to provide more humanitarian support to people in northern Rakhine State as soon as better access is granted.