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Written question asked by Neil Coyle (Labour) on Monday, 31 January 2022, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 3 February 2022 (named day). It was answered by James Heappey (Conservative) on Thursday, 3 February 2022 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Afghanistan: Nowzad

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what Ministerial directions were issued by his Department in relation to the evacuation of animals from Afghanistan from the Nowzad charity.

Answer

As he said at the Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee’s, the Secretary of State for Defence gave clear direction that the MOD evacuation should not prioritise animals over people.

The Nowzad flight was privately chartered and took place after the UK evacuation effort had ceased. UK military planners were able to assist Mr Farthing with the clearances required for the charter to land at Kabul airport by making an introduction between the charter company and the air operations staff managing the flight access. UK military personnel also enabled access to the aircraft by providing safe passage through the airport gate. This assistance did not detract from the Op Pitting response and the MOD had no further role in the evacuation of animals, including on the Nowzad flight.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
114767
Session
2021-22
Subjects
Animal welfare Animals Afghanistan Nowzad
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk