Written question asked by Baroness Northover (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Tunnicliffe (Labour) on Thursday, 12 February 2009.

Gaza

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the access granted to humanitarian agencies in Gaza.

Answer: The recent hostilities brought about almost complete closure of the crossings into Gaza and made it very dangerous for aid staff to operate, and for aid recipients to access aid at distribution centres. The ceasefire and IDF withdrawal has improved access to the Gaza Strip and security within it for humanitarian agencies, but still not nearly enough humanitarian supplies are getting in. Humanitarian personnel are also facing ongoing difficulties entering Gaza. Formal reports from the UN will be key in outlining in detail the challenges it and other organisations face. The UK Government continue to raise concerns with the Government of Israel and other partners.

Secondary information