theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_837
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_837

Katie Lam:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what proportion of her Department’s proposed 1.5 million homes will be built in rural areas. \p Matthew Pennycook: The revised National Planning Policy Framework published on 12 December 2024 includes a new Standard Method for assessing housing needs that is aligned to our Plan for Change milestone of building 1.5 million new safe and decent homes in England by the end of this Parliament.

The standard method provides a starting point for local councils to inform the preparation of their local plans. The indicative annual housing need figures for all local authorities under the new standard method can be found on gov.uk here.

Whilst the standard method is used to identify the total number of homes needed in an area, the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is clear that it is for local authorities to identify the size, type and tenure of homes needed for different groups in the community and reflect this in planning policies.

The revised NPPF is clear that in rural areas, planning policies and decisions should be responsive to local circumstances. This includes ensuring that housing is located where it will enhance or maintain the vitality of rural communities and support local services.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_838
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_838

Sarah Bool:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether his Department plans to standardise the approval process for battery safety management plans across local planning authorities. \p Matthew Pennycook: National planning policy and guidance clearly considers safety aspects of a proposed energy development, with expectations set out early for applicants to submit supporting information with their application for the proposed development.

The overarching National Policy Statement for Energy (EN-1) sets out the role of the Health and Safety Executive as a statutory consultee in the planning system as well as how the Secretary of State should account for safety concerns in their decision making.

The government updated its Planning Practice Guidance (August 2023) to encourage battery storage developers to engage with Local Fire and Rescue Services before submitting a planning application. National Fire Chiefs guidance sets out how risks should be identified early on in the design process. Local authorities are consulted by applicants and can engage in the Development Consent Order process formally through relevant representations, local impact reports or through hearings at examination.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_839
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Mr Joshua Reynolds:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what estimate her Department has made of the number of homes in Maidenhead that are below EPC band C. \p Matthew Pennycook: The information requested is available on the Open Data Service here.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_840
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_840

Sarah Bool:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department plans to review the development consent order process for solar projects to increase local authority input on battery storage safety. \p Matthew Pennycook: National planning policy and guidance clearly considers safety aspects of a proposed energy development, with expectations set out early for applicants to submit supporting information with their application for the proposed development.

The overarching National Policy Statement for Energy (EN-1) sets out the role of the Health and Safety Executive as a statutory consultee in the planning system as well as how the Secretary of State should account for safety concerns in their decision making.

The government updated its Planning Practice Guidance (August 2023) to encourage battery storage developers to engage with Local Fire and Rescue Services before submitting a planning application. National Fire Chiefs guidance sets out how risks should be identified early on in the design process. Local authorities are consulted by applicants and can engage in the Development Consent Order process formally through relevant representations, local impact reports or through hearings at examination.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_841
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_841

Anna Sabine:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what plans she has to modify regulations to facilitate the installation of (a) energy efficiency measures and (b) double glazing in listed buildings. \p Matthew Pennycook: The government will consider issues relating to installing energy efficiency measures and double glazing in listed building as part of ongoing reforms to the planning system.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_842
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Alex Ballinger:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government,  pursuant to the Answer of 15 January 2025 to Question 22080 on Housing: Bricks, what steps her Department is taking to increase the rate of swift brick installation in new build properties. \p Matthew Pennycook: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 22080 on 15 January 2025.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_843
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, when her Department plans to bring forward amended regulations on the permitted distance of air source heat pumps from property boundaries under the Warm Homes Plan. \p Matthew Pennycook: The relevant regulations were laid on 8 May 2025 and came into force on 29 May 2025. Further details on the changes can be found on gov.uk here.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_844
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to Annex 11 of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill: Impact assessment, published in May 2025, what estimate her Department has made of the change in (a) prior approval and (b) householder planning fees under the localised regime. \p Matthew Pennycook: In order to inform a national default fee schedule, the government will consult and undertake a national benchmarking exercise. We will also publish guidance on the costs that may be considered when calculating planning fees.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_845
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_845

Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, over what period her Department plans to require housing supply of 370,000 houses per year. \p Matthew Pennycook: The revised National Planning Policy Framework published on 12 December 2024 includes a new Standard Method for assessing housing need that is aligned to our Plan for Change milestone of building 1.5 million new safe and decent homes in England by the end of this Parliament. The new Standard Method sets a local housing need for England of 370,408. Detail on how individual local planning authorities should plan to meet this updated housing need, including transitional arrangements, is set out in the Framework.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_846
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_846

Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the guidance entitled New national flood and coastal erosion risk information, published on 25 March 2025, whether she has made an assessment of the potential implications for her policies on planning and development of this data. \p Matthew Pennycook: The revised National Planning Policy Framework published on 12 December 2024 is clear that new housing and most other forms of development should not be permitted in functional flood plains.

National planning policy and guidance expect flood risk assessments to consider all sources of flooding, and to take the most up-to-date information into account, which includes the Environment Agency's NaFRA2 data.

It is for individual decision-makers, including local planning authorities and the Planning Inspectorate, to apply this policy and guidance. Support in doing so is available from various sources, including recent webinars hosted by the Town and Country Planning Association. Additional guidance on interpreting the updated NaFRA2 data is also available through the Environment Agency and sector partners to assist local planning authorities.

The New Towns Programme aims to create environmentally resilient places that support the Government’s net-zero agenda through sustainable design, nature enhancement, low-carbon infrastructure, and responsible development, including flood risk mitigation.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_847
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Mr Andrew Snowden:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps she plans to take to ensure adequate (a) transparency and (b) accountability in the (i) allocation and (ii) use of National Housing Delivery Fund funding. \p Matthew Pennycook: With regard to support for small and medium-sized housebuilders, I refer the hon. Member to the Written Ministerial Statement made on 2 June 2025 (HCWS673).

With regard to the National Housing Delivery Fund, the government will set out further details at the Spending Review.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_848
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_848

Terry Jermy:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, how many short-term rental properties have been converted to private rental properties in each of the last three years for which records exist. \p Matthew Pennycook: My Department does not hold the requested information.

We intend to introduce a registration scheme for short-term lets in England, one of the benefits of which will be to give local authorities access to valuable data at a local level.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_849
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Jayne Kirkham:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will consider introducing stronger (a) censure and (b) sanction options for serious breaches of member codes of conduct in local authorities. \p Jim McMahon: In December 2024 the Government launched a consultation seeking views on proposed measures to strengthen the standards and conduct framework for local authorities in England, including the introduction of the sanction of suspension, to empower local authorities to deal appropriately member misconduct where it arises. The Government Response will be issued in due course. After its release, we will continue to work actively with local government on developing the detailed policies for implementation.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_850
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to Article 11 of the UK/Mauritius Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia, published on 22 May 2025, whether he plans to put in place mechanisms to help ensure that the trust fund is (a) managed transparently and (b) is used to support the Chagossian community. \p Stephen Doughty: As outlined in the Explanatory Memorandum, the UK will capitalise a Trust Fund established by Mauritius for the benefit of Chagossians. The Mauritian government will oversee the fund, but the UK will work with them to develop its details during implementation discussions.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_851
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to Article 5(2) of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), whether he has made an estimate of the cost to the public purse of the financial contribution to the Government of Mauritius's Marine Protected Area; and if he will set out these will be accounted for in his Department's 2025/26 budget. \p Stephen Doughty: The Blue Belt Programme, which is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, currently supports BIOT to manage the current Marine Protected Area. As the Treaty states, the terms of the management and support provided by the UK to Mauritius to establish and manage the Chagos Archipelago Marine Protected Area will be agreed between the Parties by a separate written instrument, as part of implementation of the Agreement.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_852
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_852

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to paragraph 3 of the Exchange of Letters concerning the Implementation and Interpretation of Article 11 of the UK/Mauritius Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia, published on 22 May 2025, whether he plans to put in place mechanisms to monitor Mauritius’ resettlement programme on islands other than Diego Garcia to ensure compliance with international human rights standards. \p Stephen Doughty: Under the agreement, Mauritius will be able to resettle the islands, other than Diego Garcia. It will be for Mauritius to set the terms of and manage any future resettlement. As fellow commonwealth members we expect Mauritius to ensure compliance, like the UK, with high human rights standards, in line with our shared international obligations.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_853
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to Article 19 and Annexes 5 and 6 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), what steps his Department plans to take with the Government of Mauritius to determine the precise maritime zones of (a) the Chagos Archipelago and (b) Diego Garcia. \p Stephen Doughty: The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) sets out the international legal basis on which States can establish coastal baselines and maritime zones, including a territorial sea and exclusive economic zone. Once the Treaty enters into force, the determination or delimitation of any maritime zones around the Chagos Archipelago will be a matter for Mauritius, in accordance with UNCLOS. The UK will have rights, as set out in the Treaty in relation to a 12 nautical mile zone surrounding the island of Diego Garcia, and in relation to the zone between 12 and 24 nautical miles surrounding the island of Diego Garcia.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_854
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Connor Naismith:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to help support people who are being harassed by foreign private care institutions for matters that would not be subject to (a) legal and (b) financial obligations within the UK. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has longstanding advice that British nationals should purchase appropriate insurance before travelling abroad. If British travellers do not have appropriate insurance before they travel they can be liable for emergency expenses. The FCDO cannot get involved in private disputes over commercial or other matters. Our consular assistance includes providing information about the legal systems in the country concerned, and we can provide details of local lawyers.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_855
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Jim Shannon:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of introducing a right to consular assistance for medical emergencies. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The Government is committed to strengthening consular services, including introducing a right to consular assistance in cases of human rights violations. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is considering a package of measures to achieve this, which we will announce in due course.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_856
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Dr Scott Arthur:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether RAF surveillance flights over Gaza have uncovered evidence of breaches of international law. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The operational mandate for these flights, have been narrowly defined to focus on securing the release of the hostages only. These Royal Air Force surveillance flights are unarmed and do not have a combat role. We will not comment further on detailed intelligence matters to protect operational security.

Our International Humanitarian Law (IHL) assessments include information from a wide range of sources, including a third-party contractor specialising in geolocation verification and consider analysis from a wide range of sources including the United Nations, Non-Governmental Organisations, media and organisations on the ground.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_857
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer to Question 53142 on Gaza: Famine, what assessment his Department has made of the causes of (a) famine and (b) starvation risk in Gaza. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The UK is deeply concerned by the recent Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) snapshot report, which found that the whole of Gaza faces a critical risk of famine and that half a million people are facing starvation. The Full IPC Special Report, to be issued shortly, will contain further analysis. We support the IPC's recommendations aiming to avoid Gaza descending into famine, including an end to hostilities, humanitarian access, the protection of aid workers, civilians and civilian infrastructure, multi-sectoral interventions, and commercial supply and essential services restored at scale. We continue to push for these measures along with our partners.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_858
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 2 June 2025 to Question 51909 on Gaza: Humanitarian Aid, what the response of the Israeli ambassador was to the Government's positions that (a) it stands firmly against Israel's resumption of military action in Gaza, (b) Israel's plan for aid delivery is wholly inadequate and (c) a full and unhindered resumption in the flow of aid into Gaza should take place immediately. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The Israeli ambassador has been left in no doubt about the UK's position. On 20 May, I summoned the ambassador to express the UK's firm opposition to Israel's resumption of military action in Gaza and its wholly inadequate aid delivery plan. I also demanded the immediate, full and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid. The UK made clear that failure to act risks further international isolation. The Foreign Secretary has said that unless Israel lifts restrictions and halts its offensive, the UK alongside international partners will take further concrete action.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_859
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Adam Jogee:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps  he has taken since 1 May 2025 to advance the implementation of a two-state solution to the crisis in the Middle East. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The UK's commitment to a two-state solution is unwavering. We support a two-state solution that guarantees security and stability for both the Israeli and Palestinian people and are regularly engaging Israelis, Palestinians and regional partners on this. On May 19, alongside France and Canada, the UK issued a joint statement expressing concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and the expansion of settlements in the West Bank. On May 20, the UK sanctioned Israeli individuals, illegal settler outposts and organisations supporting violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank. We continue to call on Israeli authorities to exercise restraint, adhere to international law, and clamp down on the actions of those who seek to inflame tensions. The UK is also continuing to support the Palestinian Authority (PA) as it delivers its vital reform agenda. An effective PA is vital for lasting peace and progress towards a two-state solution, and the UK is supporting the Palestinian Authority as delivers much-needed reforms.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_860
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Adam Jogee:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with his Jordanian counterpart on increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The Jordan corridor has been a vital channel for achieving the scale of aid needed in Gaza over the last 18 months. The UK has worked with Jordan to facilitate the supply of aid through this channel. The Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary met His Majesty King Abdullah II and Foreign Minister Safadi of Jordan on 5 June, and discussed ways to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza. The Prime Minister emphasised that it was vital that a sustainable ceasefire and the release of all hostages be secured, and humanitarian aid be delivered at speed and volume. He reiterated that if Israel did not cease the renewed military offensive and lift its restrictions on humanitarian aid, the UK and its partners would take further concrete actions in response. Both leaders agreed on the importance of the Palestinian Authority's reform agenda as part of the path to a two-state solution and lasting peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_861
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Kate Osamor:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations he has made to the Israeli Government on the NGO taxation bill which has been proposed in the Israeli Knesset. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: We are deeply troubled by the proposed non-governmental organisation (NGO) taxation bill which threatens to undermine the ability of NGOs to operate effectively and continue their important work in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs). We continue to raise these concerns with the Israeli government.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_862
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Adam Jogee:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he has taken to advance recognition of the State of Palestine since 20 May 2025. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The UK commitment to a two-state solution is unwavering.  We are committed to recognising a Palestinian state at a time that has the most impact in achieving this reality and is most conducive to long-term prospects for peace. We are clear that does not need to be at the end of a process. UK bilateral recognition is the single most important action the UK can take with regard to Palestinian statehood. That is why it is important to get the timing right so that it creates genuine momentum and is not simply a symbolic gesture. We are continuing to engage all partners on advancing a two-state solution and supporting the foundations of Palestinian statehood.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_863
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Kate Osamor:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with his Israeli counterpart on the attack on the Gaza Freedom Flotilla in international waters near Malta on 2 May 2025. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: We are aware of the serious incident involving a ship off the coast of Malta early last month. We have been in contact with local authorities and understand that no UK citizens were on board and there were no casualties. The Foreign Secretary continues to reiterate to Israel that they must lift the block on aid to Gaza, including with Israeli Foreign Minister Sa'ar.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_864
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

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Richard Burgon:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what estimate his Department has made of (a) the number of airstrikes carried out by Israel in Gaza between October 2023 and September 2024, (b) the number of those his Department has examined for potential breaches of international law and (c) the number of those examined that were assessed as potentially involving violations of international law. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: Our International Humanitarian Law (IHL) assessments, which assess Israel's compliance and commitment to IHL in the conflict in Gaza, use data on verified incidents, including but not limited to airstrikes, provided by a third-party specialising in geolocation. We do not track every single incident or airstrike as part of this process.

While the assessments have raised concerns about possible breaches of IHL in the areas of humanitarian access, the treatment of detainees, and forced displacement, we have not been able to reach a determination in relation to the conduct of hostilities due to the lack of sufficient, verifiable evidence. To determine a possible breach in this area requires access to sensitive specific information related to individual incidents, such as the intended targets, anticipated military advantage and anticipated civilian harm, which is often not available to us.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_865
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Henry Tufnell:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what progress his Department has made on implementing the Arab Plan for the reconstruction of Gaza. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The Foreign Secretary welcomed the Arab initiative of a Recovery and Reconstruction Plan for Gaza, alongside Foreign Ministers of France, Germany and Italy on 8 March. However, reconstruction can only fully begin once there is a long-term ceasefire. To prepare for implementation, the UK has been working with partners to build international support for the Arab plan. In addition, we are exploring innovative finance mechanisms to scale up financing. With our Egyptian partners, we will be co-chairing the Humanitarian and Reconstruction working group at the Two State Solution conference in New York from 17-19 June. We will use this opportunity to further mobilise international support for the plan and cohere international donor support and planning.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_866
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Adam Jogee:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with his US counterpart on increasing levels of humanitarian aid into Gaza. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The UK remains in close and regular contact with the United States to jointly seek ways to get urgently-needed humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza. In April and May the Foreign Secretary, Secretary of State Rubio and Special Envoy Witkoff discussed the urgent need for a full and unhindered flow of humanitarian assistance. We continue to work closely with the US on the delivery of aid and medical support. Together with our international partners, we are calling on Israel to immediately allow the rapid, safe and unfettered resumption of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_867
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Mary Glindon:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of reports of the killing of Palestinians near an aid distribution centre in Rafah. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: We are appalled by repeated reports of mass casualty incidents, in which Palestinians have been killed when trying to access aid sites in Gaza. Desperate civilians who have endured 20 months of war should never face the risk of death or injury to simply feed themselves and their families. We call for an immediate and independent investigation into these events, and for the perpetrators to be held to account. Israel must immediately allow the UN and aid partners to safely deliver all types of aid at scale to save lives, reduce suffering and maintain dignity.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_868
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Susan Murray:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with international counterparts on the case of Iranian singer Amir Tataloo. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: We continue to engage in dialogue with international partners regarding the human rights situation in Iran. We have repeatedly called on Iran to establish a moratorium on the death penalty in multilateral fora, including at the UN Third Committee and Human Rights Council. The UK is opposed to the death penalty in all circumstances as a matter of principle. We were integral to the delivery of a new Iran human rights resolution, adopted by the Human Rights Council on 3 April, which renewed the mandates of the Special Rapporteur and Fact-Finding Mission. These mandates are essential for shedding light on Iran's abhorrent use of the death penalty and wider human rights violations.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_869
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Dr Scott Arthur:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what economic steps he is taking to encourage Israel to allow aid into Gaza. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: On 20 May, the Foreign Secretary announced that we have suspended negotiations with this Israeli Government on a new free trade agreement. We will be reviewing cooperation with them under the 2030 Bilateral Roadmap. On 19 May we issued a statement, with France and Canada, calling on the Israeli Government to stop its military operations in Gaza and immediately allow humanitarian aid to enter. We continue to call on Israel to allow for a full resumption in the flow of aid into Gaza.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_870
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Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with his US counterpart on the policy of the US administration on Iran. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: We work closely with the US on all our Middle East priorities, and the Foreign Secretary has specifically discussed Iran with Secretary Rubio on multiple occasions.

We fully support the US efforts to reach a negotiated solution on Iran's nuclear programme.

In parallel, we will continue to work with the US to hold Iran to account for both its malign regional activity and its state threats activity against UK-based targets, including in multilateral fora and through our sanctions regimes.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_871
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Adam Jogee:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of the (a) political and (b) security situation in Libya. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: We are deeply concerned by the recent violence in Tripoli and we are continuing to monitor developments closely. We welcome the truces that have been agreed, urge all parties to respect them unconditionally and work towards agreeing a permanent ceasefire. This latest unrest highlights the urgent need for a sustainable political solution. Libyan actors must take responsibility for peace and security by engaging constructively with the UN to achieve a Libyan-led political agreement. The UK remains committed to supporting the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) and will continue engaging a broad range of political stakeholders to help build a more stable, democratic, and prosperous Libya.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_872
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UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_872

Dr Scott Arthur:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he is taking to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: On 28 April, the UK announced a package of support for the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including £101 million for humanitarian aid, support for Palestinian economic development, and strengthening Palestinian Authority governance and reform. As part of this package, on 21 May the Minister for Development announced a £4 million contribution to the British Red Cross to deliver humanitarian relief in Gaza through their partner the Palestinian Red Crescent Society. On 19 May we issued a statement, with France and Canada, calling on the Israeli Government to stop its military operations in Gaza and immediately allow humanitarian aid to enter. We also issued a joint donor statement with 26 other signatories calling for a full resumption of aid into Gaza and for Israel to allow the UN and other aid organisations to operate independently. We continue to call on Israel to allow for a full resumption in the flow of aid into Gaza.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_873
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_873

Marsha De Cordova:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether his Department has made any (a) formal or (b) informal assessment of the potential risk of genocide in Gaza. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The UK's long-standing policy is that any formal determination as to whether genocide has occurred is a matter for a competent national or international court, rather than for governments or non-judicial bodies. It should be decided after consideration of all the evidence available in the context of a credible judicial process.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_874
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_874

Dr Scott Arthur:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with NGOs on alternative aid routes into Gaza. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: All routes to deliver humanitarian aid into Gaza must be approved by the Government of Israel. The UK regularly engages with the United Nations, humanitarian partners and Non-Governmental Organisations, who provide insights into the challenges facing the humanitarian response in Gaza, informing UK policy. The UK has previously collaborated with regional partners on alternative routes, including air drops and a maritime corridor. However these cannot substitute delivery by land, which remains the best way to get aid in at the scale required. On 19 May, the UK signed a joint donor statement on the humanitarian situation in Gaza calling for a full resumption of aid and for Israel to allow the UN and other aid organisations to operate independently. The Government of Israel must abide by its international obligations to ensure full, rapid, safe and unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance to the population in Gaza.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_875
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_875

Tom Morrison:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what information his Department holds on the number of British citizens who have been detained abroad when entering another country due to mistaken identity based on their name alone in each of the last five years; and how many of these citizens have been refused consular support during their detention. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office publishes data on the assistance services provided to British nationals on gov.uk. It is not possible to differentiate data on whether mistaken identity was a factor in detentions.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_876
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_876

Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what criteria he plans to use to assess the effectiveness of the Syria (Sanctions) (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations 2025. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The amendments to the Syria Sanctions Regulations are intended to help Syrian economic recovery and support the flow of essential investment. This is vital for building stability in Syria and the wider region. We will continue to closely monitor the situation in Syria and engage with the Syrian Government, civil society, and our international partners on the impact of sanctions amendments. We will keep our Syria sanctions regime under review.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_877
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_877

Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent estimate he has made of the number of (a) groups and (b) militias operating in Syria. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The situation in Syria is extremely fluid and, as such, we are not in a position to provide numbers of militias or other groups operating in Syria. We will continue to work with the Government of Syria and international partners to support security and stability in Syria.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_878
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_878

Rachael Maskell:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations his Department has made to the Iranian authorities following reports of 10 Bahá'í women being sentenced to a combined 90 years in prison for facilitating community-based educational and recreational activities for children. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: Iran's abhorrent repression of Baha'is is unacceptable. We continue to take action in multilateral fora to spotlight abuses against Baha'is and hold Iran to account. On 18 March, at the Human Rights Council, the UK's Permanent Representative to the UN, said: "The past year has seen an escalation in the arrest and detention of Baha'i women as authorities seek to suppress their religious identity and autonomy as women." We were integral to the delivery of a new Iran human rights resolution, adopted by the Human Rights Council on 3 April, which renewed and expanded the mandate of the Fact-Finding Mission on Iran, which will investigate a broader range of abuses including against religious minorities, in an important step towards accountability. His Majesty's Ambassador to Iran and I continue to raise human rights directly with the Iranian government.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_879
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_879

Adam Jogee:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of the (a) political and (b) security situation in Iraq. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The UK wants to see a stable, peaceful and prosperous Iraq. In partnership with the Iraqi Government, we aim to counter threats and foster stability and development, while promoting UK interests and values. We are encouraged by this period of relative security stability in the country and will continue to work with Iraq and other regional partners to ensure this continues. With the transition of the Global Coalition Against Daesh's military mission, Operation Inherent Resolve, set for September this year, the UK is working at pace to implement new defence and security agreements with the Government of Iraq.

Elections are due to take place in Iraq in November this year. We continue to monitor the election build-up and look forward to a free and fair election.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_880
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_880

Henry Tufnell:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what diplomatic steps he is taking to push for the removal of restrictions on humanitarian access and aid to Gaza. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: As I made clear to the house on 4 June, Israel's unjustified block on aid into Gaza needs to end. It is inhumane. The Foreign Secretary recently announced that we have suspended negotiations with this Israeli government on a new free trade agreement and will be reviewing cooperation with them under the 2030 Bilateral Roadmap. On 19 May we issued a statement, with France and Canada, calling on the Israeli Government to stop its military operations in Gaza and immediately allow humanitarian aid to enter. We also issued a joint donor statement with 26 other signatories calling for a full resumption of aid into Gaza and for Israel to allow the UN and other aid organisations to operate independently. The Foreign Secretary continues to make representations to Israeli counterparts stressing the importance of restoring the flow of aid into Gaza.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_881
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_881

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to Article 11(1)(h) of the UK/Mauritius Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia, published on 22 May 2025, what data sources he plans to use to apply the Gross Domestic Product Deflator to adjust annual payments from the fourteenth year onward; what his planned timetable is for making adjustments; and what mechanisms are in place to adjust for significant economic fluctuations. \p Stephen Doughty: As stated in the Finance Exchange of Letters, all annual payments from the 14th year onwards shall be the value of the preceding annual payment adjusted for inflation using the Gross Domestic Product ("GDP") Deflator for the preceding calendar year, as published by the UK Government.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_882
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_882

Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what diplomatic steps he is taking to ensure that Hamas has no role in the future governance of Gaza. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: Recovery and reconstruction efforts in Gaza must be based upon a solid political and security framework acceptable to both Israelis and Palestinians, which provides long-term peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians alike. We are clear that Hamas must neither govern Gaza nor be a threat to Israel anymore. We explicitly support the central role for the Palestinian Authority and the implementation of its reform agenda. To that end we are working with international counterparts to support the Arab Plan for Gaza reconstruction and strengthen the Palestinian Authority.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_883
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_883

Dr Scott Arthur:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with international partners on the Israeli government's proposals to permanently (a) occupy Gaza and (b) displace its population. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: The Prime Minister has been clear that the UK strongly opposes the expansion of Israel's operations in Gaza. We have repeatedly stated that Palestinian territory must not be reduced in the conduct of this war or subjected to demographic change, and that there must be no forced displacement of people from Gaza. Ministers have made these views clear in their contacts with Israeli counterparts. We have worked closely with international partners to set out our concerns in joint statements, including the Prime Minister's joint statement with his Canadian and French counterparts on 19 May. We have also clearly set out our concerns at the UN Security Council. On 20 May, the Foreign Secretary set out the Government's latest steps in response to the situation in Gaza, including suspending negotiations with this Israeli government on a new free trade agreement. He also made clear that if Israel pursues this military offensive as it has threatened, failing to ensure the unhindered provision of aid, we will take further actions in response.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_884
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_884

Brian Leishman:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 2 June 2025 to Question 52683 on International Humanitarian Law, what the name is of the third-party contractor providing information and analysis to the International Humanitarian Law cell; and how much his Department paid to this contractor since January 2024. \p Stephen Doughty: The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office provides funding for the Centre for Information Resilience (CIR), an independent not for profit organisation that specialises in using open-source methodologies to verify digital content (e.g. footage, images) from conflict settings. We support CIR's work in a number of conflict settings, including the Middle East, via a central accountable grant agreement. We have provided £715,000 of funding for their work on the Middle East since January 2024.