🌍 Oral Answers to Questions

• Climate Change Leadership:
  • The UK is taking steps to lead on climate change, with a focus on adaptation and mitigation to promote global and national economic growth.
  • The UK has set an ambitious goal to cut emissions by 81% by 2035 as shown at COP29, and is championing clean energy through initiatives like GB Energy and the global clean power alliance.
  • Concerns have been raised about relying on Chinese supply chains for UK solar plans, leading the government to conduct a China audit to assess all relationships and ensure a consistent approach.
• NATO and International Security:
  • The UK reaffirms its commitment to NATO as the cornerstone of its security policy, with regular discussions among allies.
  • The government is addressing concerns about security in the Arctic and respecting the constitutional arrangements of Greenland and Denmark.
  • The UK is assessing its foreign policy to prepare for potential changes under the incoming US administration, while also strengthening security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Humanitarian Crises:
  • The UK is using diplomatic efforts to press for a ceasefire in Sudan, aiming to enable unrestricted humanitarian access and protect civilians.
  • Efforts are being made to protect healthcare facilities in Sudan and to keep aid crossings open to deliver aid where it is most needed.
  • In Gaza, the UK is calling for an immediate end to Israel’s restrictions on aid and is pushing for a surge of humanitarian aid following a potential ceasefire.
  • The UK is actively involved in negotiations to secure the release of hostages, including British national Emily Damari, and is pushing for humanitarian access for them.
• Economic Growth and International Relations:
  • The UK is enhancing its economic partnership with India, relaunching trade talks and focusing on green technology exchanges to combat global warming.
  • The UK is preparing to launch a soft power council to promote its culture and creative industries internationally.
• Middle East and Iran:
  • The UK condemns Iran’s attacks on Israel and is working with allies to hold Iran accountable through sanctions and addressing weapons proliferation.
  • The government is reviewing sanctions on Syria, aiming for an inclusive government that respects the rights of all its citizens, including religious minorities.
• Migration and Security:
  • The UK is developing a sanctions regime to target people smugglers and is collaborating with international partners to tackle illegal migration.
  • The government is involved in negotiations concerning the Chagos Islands and Diego Garcia, balancing national security interests with international agreements.
• Human Rights and Democracy:
  • The UK is advocating for the release of political prisoners in Egypt and Pakistan and is concerned about the erosion of women’s rights in Afghanistan.
  • The government continues to support efforts towards peace and stability in regions like Kosovo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The parliamentary session displays a moderate level of disagreement, primarily centered on policy and diplomatic actions rather than direct confrontations or heated exchanges. There are notable instances of differing views and policy critiques, but these are generally expressed in a formal and controlled manner typical of parliamentary debate. Key examples include: the disagreement over the UK’s approach to climate change and international commitments, as seen in the questioning of the climate finance package details; the discussion on the Chagos Islands and negotiations with Mauritius, where there is clear opposition and calls for further delays or information; and the varying perspectives on sanctions against Israel and the handling of the Gaza situation. However, the session remains largely cooperative, with ministers acknowledging the points raised by MPs and providing structured responses, indicating a moderate level of disagreement.