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Written question asked by Zarah Sultana (Labour) on Thursday, 19 October 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 23 October 2023. It was answered by David Rutley (Conservative) on Thursday, 26 October 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Gaza: Drinking Water

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what information his Department holds on the level of access to drinking water in Gaza.

Answer

The available evidence indicates that immediate action is needed to prevent death and illness from lack of sufficient safe water. According to the United Nations, 50 per cent of water infrastructure has been destroyed or heavily damaged. The opening of the Rafah crossing to humanitarian traffic is insufficient to meet minimum requirements, and the bottled water carried by humanitarian convoys into Gaza is severely insufficient.

The UK is calling for immediate, unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza so that essential aid including food, water, fuel and medical supplies can reach civilian populations. On 16 October, the Prime Minister announced £10 million in humanitarian funding for civilians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and on 23 October a further £20 million, in response to the escalating conflict. This funding will allow trusted partners, including key UN agencies to provide essential relief items and services. The UK is also calling on all parties to protect border crossings to support safe humanitarian access and mitigate harm to civilians.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
203609
Session
2022-23
Subjects
Drinking water Gaza
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk