Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the humanitarian consequences and the implications for the peace process of an attack by Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates backed troops on the city of Hodeida in Yemen; and what action they are taking, both bilaterally and multilaterally, to prevent such an attack.

We are in regular contact with the Coalition about the need to ensure that any military operations in and around Hodeidah are conducted in accordance with international humanitarian law, including in relation to the protection of civilians, and do not disrupt commercial and humanitarian flows through the port. The Coalition has assured us that it is incorporating humanitarian concerns into operational plans. It is vital to maintain the flow of food, fuel and medical supplies into Yemen. For their part the Houthis must not compromise port facilities or hinder the humanitarian response.

It remains imperative to resume work towards a comprehensive political settlement. Lasting peace and stability in Yemen will require dialogue and negotiation. UN Special Envoy Martin Griffiths is due to update the Security Council soon on his proposals for a negotiated settlement. We call upon all parties to throw their weight behind his efforts, for the sake of the Yemeni people and the security of Yemen's neighbours.