Rachel has issued the following response to constituents who have contacted her about the crisis in Yemen.
I share your concerns regarding the crisis in Yemen and the plight of the Yemini people who are caught up in the conflict. I can assure you that the Government fully recognises the severity of the unfolding humanitarian crisis. I am proud that the UK is leading the global response to this crisis in Yemen, as the third largest humanitarian donor to the country. The £205 million UK funding will provide enough food for 3.4 million people for at least a month.
The Government has taken the lead in lobbying across the international community for urgent and unobstructed access for humanitarian assistance into Yemen. You may be interested to know that the UK proposed and co-ordinated the UN Security Council Presidential Statement earlier this year, which repeated the call for unhindered humanitarian access.
The UK continues to work hard in order to achieve stability in the region. The Houthi insurgency overthrew a legitimate, United Nations backed Government in Yemen. The insurgency has cruelly executed a number of people including the former President of Yemen and prevented humanitarian aid reaching those most in need. The legitimate Government of Yemen requested the support of its neighbours and allies, including the UK and Saudi Arabia, to help tackle the rebel insurgency.
With regards to the recent UK visit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman from Saudi Arabia, I am encouraged that the Government is working with Saudi Arabia to address regional and international issues, including addressing the need for a political resolution to the conflict in Yemen.
I believe it is important for the UK to engage with Saudi Arabia in order to encourage change. You may be interested to know during a visit to Saudi Arabia at the end of last year, the Prime Minister made clear to the Crown Prince that the port of Hodeidah needed to be reopened for humanitarian and commercial supplies. Saudi Arabia then reopened the port, which shows the value and importance of engagement.
Moreover, I am encouraged to learn of the Crown Prince’s social and economic reform programme, Vision 2030, which embraces a more inclusive and tolerant Saudi society. His recent visit will enable him to outline this vision, alongside providing an opportunity to discuss the means through which the UK and Saudi Arabia can address the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
Date published: 22 March 2018.
As with all items in the FAQ Library, answers are subject to modification as events and circumstances change and evolve. If you would like an answer that is more specific to your circumstances, or to seek and up-to-date response, please email rachel.maclean.mp@parliament.uk.
