Middle East

Oral Answers to Questions — International Development – in the House of Commons at 11:30 am on 24 June 2009.

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Photo of Jim Sheridan Jim Sheridan Labour, Paisley and Renfrewshire North 11:30, 24 June 2009

What his latest assessment is of the humanitarian situation in Gaza; and if he will make a statement.

Photo of Jim Sheridan Jim Sheridan Labour, Paisley and Renfrewshire North

My hon. Friend will be aware that the Israeli blockade is causing extreme problems for people in Gaza. Cement supplies have been held up in the blockade, but how can people reconstruct and build their houses if they cannot get those materials?

Photo of Michael Foster Michael Foster Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department for International Development

My hon. Friend makes a valid point. The United Nations believes that only 25 types of relief out of the some 4,000 that are needed in Gaza are actually getting through the crossings, and construction materials are essential if we are to rebuild Gaza city.