(Witney) (Con): What
steps her Department is taking to support the overseas territories
to tackle the covid-19 pandemic.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for International
Development ()
We will always stand by the overseas territories. A range of
Government Departments, led by DFID and the Foreign and
Commonwealth Office, are supporting the overseas territories to
mitigate the impact of the pandemic. Support includes essential
medical supplies, public health advice, security and access
support, and financial aid to mitigate the economic impact in the
most vulnerable territories.
[V]
The Royal Navy is providing a pivotal role in providing medical
assistance to British overseas territories. Will the Minister
join me in recognising the dedication and skill of the servicemen
and women of RFA Argus, which is providing that medical
assistance to the Caribbean?
I know that my hon. Friend takes a keen interest in defence
matters, and I absolutely do agree that the Royal Navy continues
to provide great service to the territories, particularly in the
Caribbean. I, too, commend the servicemen and women of RFA Argus,
who are providing vital support to the overseas territories. RFA
Argus is boosting the resilience of the territories as they
prepare for hurricane season. The FCO and DFID are providing
further support to the territories to help deal with the impact
of covid-19. In addition, an MOD security assistance team will be
supporting local authorities in some of the territories as they
respond to the coronavirus.
