🌍 Oral Answers to Questions

• Syrian Constitutional Declaration and New Government: The UK welcomed the Syrian constitutional declaration’s provisions on freedom of expression, belief, and women’s rights, as well as the formation of the new Syrian Government. Concerns were raised about mass killings and instability in Syria, with the UK pledging £160 million for recovery and stability efforts and continued support for inclusive governance.

• UK-Mauritius Treaty on Chagos Islands: Discussions about the treaty, which would allow the continued operation of the base on Diego Garcia, were ongoing. Financial implications and costs for the treaty were debated, with assurances that security would be a priority, but full details would be provided upon finalization.

• Urgent Repairs to Overseas Estates: The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office emphasized the importance of maintaining its overseas estates safely and securely. Funding for repairs was being discussed with the Treasury, with a focus on developing a sustainable funding model.

• European Union Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina: The UK does not directly contribute to the EU force but supports stability in the region through NATO and bilateral defense cooperation. Enhanced cooperation with the EU was being considered.

• Israeli Settlements in the West Bank: The UK condemned Israeli settlements as illegal under international law, opposing any expansion. Concerns were expressed over increased settler violence and calls for stronger sanctions and a trade ban on settlement goods were debated.

• Official Development Assistance (ODA) on Refugee Costs and Infectious Diseases: The government is working to reduce spending on in-donor refugee costs to free up more ODA for global development priorities. Reductions in the ODA budget were expected to impact efforts to tackle infectious diseases, but the UK remains committed to supporting key organizations like Gavi and the Global Fund.

• West Papua Critical Minerals and Human Rights: The UK is concerned about human rights in West Papua and continues to support a visit by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. The memorandum of understanding with Indonesia on critical minerals includes elements promoting environmental, social, and governance practices.

• Middle East Peace Efforts: Diplomatic efforts continued to push for a ceasefire in Gaza and to advance peace in the region. The UK condemned settler violence and settlement expansion in the West Bank and urged Israel to allow aid into Gaza immediately.

• Support for Ukraine: The UK and its allies are maintaining pressure on Russia through sanctions and diplomatic efforts to support Ukraine. Discussions on future security arrangements for Ukraine, including the potential deployment of UK troops, were ongoing.

• Right to Self-Determination: The UK promotes the right to self-determination as outlined in international covenants but emphasized that domestic issues like voting rights in Washington, D.C., are matters for the U.S. to handle.

• Armenia and Azerbaijan Peace Negotiations: The UK encouraged both countries to sign a peace agreement soon and urged the release of detained officials and civilians in Azerbaijan.

• International Students and UK Universities: Efforts are ongoing to maintain the attractiveness of UK universities to international students despite a decline in numbers, recognizing the importance of a strong knowledge economy.

• Global Health and HIV/AIDS: The UK reaffirmed its commitment to working towards ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, despite global challenges including potential reductions in aid funding.

• Protection of Journalists in Conflict Zones: The UK emphasized the importance of protecting journalists in conflict zones like Gaza and Turkey, supporting the vital role they play in reporting to the world.

• Seizing Russian State Assets: Efforts to move from freezing to seizing Russian assets to support Ukraine’s rebuilding were discussed, with recognition of the complexities and the need for allied coordination.

The parliamentary session exhibits a moderate level of disagreement, primarily focused on specific policy issues rather than widespread discord. The disagreements were evident but not pervasive, and they did not escalate into major conflicts. Here are detailed examples and explanations for the rating:

1. Chagos Islands Treaty and Sovereignty:
   • There was significant disagreement over the proposed treaty with Mauritius regarding the Chagos Islands. Several MPs, including Joe Robertson and Andrew Rosindell, expressed their discontent with the financial and sovereignty implications of the deal. Robertson directly challenged the Minister’s response, suggesting there was a lack of transparency. Rosindell accused the government of a ‘sell-out’ and questioned the financial details and the decision-making process. However, the Minister remained firm on the need to protect the Diego Garcia base and national security, leading to a clear disagreement but not an aggressive confrontation.
2. Israeli Settlements and Actions in Gaza:
   • Various MPs expressed disagreement and frustration over Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank. Kit Malthouse and Will Forster pushed for stronger measures against Israeli settlements, including sanctions and embargoes, while the Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, acknowledged the concerns but outlined the existing measures and continued dialogue with Israeli counterparts. This indicates a disagreement on the severity and type of actions the UK should take, but the exchange was conducted within the norms of parliamentary debate without escalating into a significant conflict.
3. Official Development Assistance Budget Cuts:
   • David Davis challenged the Minister over the potential impact of planned reductions to the Official Development Assistance budget, specifically concerning efforts to tackle infectious diseases. The Minister, Stephen Doughty, responded by explaining the government’s commitment and decisions within the spending review context, showing some divergence but not deep-seated opposition.
4. Relations with China:
   • Priti Patel expressed concerns over the government’s approach to China, accusing the Labour government of being too lenient. The Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, defended the government’s balanced approach of co-operation, challenge, and competition. This exchange highlighted a clear disagreement on foreign policy towards China but did not lead to intense confrontations.

Overall, the disagreements were focused on policy specifics and were handled within the typical scope of parliamentary discourse. The level of disagreement was significant enough to warrant a rating of 3, indicating a moderate level of discord.